Ardbeg Scorch Committee Release

Description

Ardbeg Scorch Committee Release Bottling Note

Ardbeg Scorch Committee Release is a bold, smoky single malt crafted by the renowned Ardbeg Distillery on Islay, Scotland.

Released to commemorate Ardbeg Day 2021, the Ardbeg Scorch Committee Release draws inspiration from a mythical Islay dragon said to dwell beneath the distillery’s warehouse floors. This fiery legend is mirrored in the whisky’s intense character and dramatic maturation process. Bottled at a robust 51.7% ABV, this limited edition showcases Ardbeg’s signature peaty style with an amplified twist.

The whisky is matured in Ardbeg’s most heavily charred ex-bourbon American oak casks, often referred to as “Alligator casks” due to their deeply scorched interior resembling alligator skin. This extreme charring imparts a distinctive depth and complexity, intensifying the smoky and spicy profile that defines the Scorch expression. Though the exact aging period remains undisclosed, the maturation technique and cask selection play a pivotal role in shaping its bold identity.

Ardbeg Distillery, founded in 1815, is celebrated for its uncompromising approach to peat and innovation in whisky-making. The Scorch Committee Release exemplifies this ethos, pushing boundaries with its fierce flavor and dramatic backstory. Non-chill filtered and naturally colored, it retains the full character of the spirit, offering a rich and unaltered experience.

This release is a testament to Ardbeg’s mastery of smoke and storytelling, combining folklore, craftsmanship, and Islay’s rugged spirit into a single, unforgettable dram.

Ardbeg Scorch Committee Release Tasting Note

Nose: The aroma opens with intense charred oak and earthy peat smoke, layered with hints of herbal spice and a subtle sweetness that lingers beneath the surface.

Palate: On the tongue, it delivers a bold wave of smoke and spice, with a dry, ashy texture. Notes of black pepper and burnt wood dominate, balanced by a faint trace of vanilla and toasted cereal.

Finish: The finish is long and smoky, with lingering embers and a touch of medicinal character. A slight bitterness fades slowly, leaving a warming sensation.

Overall: Ardbeg Scorch Committee Release is a heavily peated expression with pronounced char and spice, showcasing Ardbeg’s fiery style.