The Ardbeg 2000 Cask Sample is a unique expression from the renowned Ardbeg distillery, bottled at a robust 55.9% ABV. This 700 ml whisky from the year 2000 presents a complex and intriguing profile.
Nose
The initial nosing of the Ardbeg 2000 reveals a sweet and nectareous quality, with honey-poached pears and a hint of aloe vera, suggesting a soothing, rich sweetness. As it opens up, there’s a sprinkle of pepper powder and a briny note of salt, reminiscent of the sea breeze associated with Islay whiskies.
The freshness of watermelon rind and the warm spice of cloves come through, followed by an autumnal note of dry leaves. The experience is further enriched by the zest of fresh oranges, the mustiness of a dusty room, the unique aroma of cement, and the fruity notes of wax apples and dried longan pulps.
Palate
On the palate, the whisky unfolds with an unexpected vegetal crispness, akin to kale and yellow leaves, which is then complemented by the nuttiness of sunflower seeds and pistachio shells.
This is layered with the fruitiness of wax apples and Indian jujubes, along with a slightly fermented tang of rotten oranges and the crispness of Asian pears. A subtle undercurrent of iodine adds a medicinal quality that ties back to the traditional Islay profile.
Finish
The finish is a journey through a coastal landscape with notes of kelp and sweet hay. There’s a presence of dried fig floss, which adds a chewy, fruity sweetness. A wisp of light smoke is reminiscent of Ardbeg’s peaty heritage, and the finish is rounded off with the smoothness of mung bean puree, leaving a lasting, complex impression.
This cask sample from Ardbeg is a showcase of the distillery’s ability to balance intensity with subtlety, offering a dram that is both challenging and rewarding, with layers of flavours that invite exploration.
