The Ardbeg 21 Year Old is a limited edition single malt Scotch whisky that stands as a tribute to the distillery’s resilience through the challenging times of the 1990s. Matured in ex-bourbon casks and presented at 46% ABV without chill-filtration, this expression was unveiled in the latter half of 2016.
Nose: The Ardbeg 21 greets you with a complex and intriguing nose. It offers a rich tapestry of aromas, starting with tarry smoke and what could be described as ‘Ardbeg ice cream’, a creamy sweetness intertwined with the distillery’s signature peat. A sprinkle of black pepper adds a spicy edge, while green herbal notes of fennel and basil provide a fresh contrast. Adding water unveils layers of sweet toffee and popcorn, alongside buttery oak, all underpinned by the persistent sooty, tarry smokiness that is unmistakably Ardbeg.
Palate: The palate is greeted with an intense, peppery fizz that opens up to a rich array of flavours. There’s the deep sweetness of liquorice and aniseed, the nutty complexity of marzipan, and the hearty warmth of toasted rye bread. Charcoal and peppermint add a refreshing, clean quality. The flavours are harmonious and integrated, leaving a lingering impression of creamy vanilla, sweet undertones, and a final dash of spice.
Finish: The finish is long and lingering, yet it carries a gentle touch, soothing the palate with notes of coal tar and aniseed. The smoky buttery quality rounds off the experience, leaving a lasting, comforting aftertaste.
This Ardbeg 21-Year-Old is a whisky that tells the story of its origin with every sip, offering a luxurious and multi-layered experience that pays homage to the distillery’s past and its unwavering commitment to quality.
