Ardbeg Kelpie

Ardbeg Kelpie is not just a whisky; it’s a narrative of tradition, innovation, and flavour complexity. Hailing from the storied…

Andrew Ansley

March 2, 2023

Ardbeg Kelpie: Flavor, Price, and Distiller

Overall

Value

Flavor

Liquor

Ardbeg Kelpie

Type

Whiskey

ABV

46%

Region

Scotland

Distiller

Nose

Oily peat, dark chocolate, smoked fish, hints of seaweed, and a curious, sharp herbal note. Waves of spicy black pepper.

Taste

Treacle toffee, Turkish coffee, smoky bacon and lots of dark, dark chocolate. A curious burst of peachy, estery fruit, hickory wood, clove oil and a suggestion of black olives.

Finish

Seemingly lasting forever, with deep, deep, almost subterranean flavours of clove, tar, and rich toffee.

Ardbeg Kelpie is not just a whisky; it’s a narrative of tradition, innovation, and flavour complexity. Hailing from the storied Ardbeg Distillery on the Isle of Islay, Scotland, this Scotch whisky embodies the essence of its origins. Since 1815, the distillery has been a bastion of premium whisky-making, and Kelpie is a testament to this legacy.

The Distinctive Maturation Process

Kelpie’s uniqueness lies in its maturation. Aged in barrels from oak near the Black Sea, this whisky is distinct from its peers. This innovative aging approach imparts unparalleled depth and complexity, setting Kelpie apart in the Ardbeg range known for its smoky and peaty profiles.

A Palate of Peat and Sea

Upon tasting, Ardbeg Kelpie greets you with a bold peat smoke burst, the distillery’s hallmark. This smokiness intertwines with notes of seaweed and a hint of brine, reminiscent of the mythical sea creature it’s named after. The journey continues with dark chocolate nuances, a sprinkle of black pepper, and a vanilla whisper. These are beautifully balanced with a sweet undercurrent, echoing caramel and toffee.

The Age and Blend

Ardbeg Kelpie’s age remains undisclosed, a choice that allows the master distiller the freedom to blend barrels of varying ages. This approach results in a flavor profile that is both intricate and well-rounded, showcasing the distiller’s craftsmanship.

The Ardbeg Range

The Ardbeg portfolio is diverse and esteemed. It includes the Ardbeg Ten Years Old, a perfect harmony of sweetness and peat; Uigeadail, with its rich and deep character; and Corryvreckan, known for its robust and intense flavors. Each expression offers a unique exploration of the Islay whisky tradition.

Conclusion

Ardbeg Kelpie stands as a remarkable embodiment of the Ardbeg Distillery’s commitment to excellence. With its peaty essence and the unique character imparted by Black Sea oak barrels, it is a distinguished member of the world of Scotch whisky. Its complex flavor profile and craftsmanship make Ardbeg Kelpie a must-try for connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.

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