Ardbeg 13 year old 2005 (That Boutique-y Whisky Company, Batch 9)

Whisky Tasting: The Oak Barrel, Sydney, January 14, 2021. Whisky #6 Nose: Delicate, sharp citrus atop a deeper, stony mineral base. Subtle maritime smoke and a whiff of burnt match. Lemon oil appears with more sniffing, eventually revealing a floral undertone that adds richness and smoothness – the lemon oil becomes lemon blossom. A scent driven by the spirit with a smoky character resembling cold ash or soot rather than a campfire. Palate: Sweet yet vibrant entry with lively, fresh citrus notes. Gentle smoke in the background that grows with more tasting, becoming robust and full. Cinnamon, ginger, camphor, and a sweet chili sauce create a warming sensation balanced by sea-like notes of tarred rope, smoked fish, and a salty air. The texture coats the mouth without being heavy. Finish: Medium to long. The smoke fades into light sweet fruit and a trace of ash in the aftertaste. This independent bottler has released several expressions from this distillery, which is uncommon as this distillery's spirit is rarely found in independent bottlings. This particular expression was distilled in March 2005 and aged in a re-made ex-bourbon hogshead for 13 years, bottled in July 2018. It presents a different character than the distillery's current standard offerings. It's more traditional with an oily, tarry quality and less refined and precise. It offers a gratifying, calming experience but isn't necessarily superior – just distinct, yet still very good. Fairly pricey and mainly of interest to collectors of this distillery's releases. “Very Good”: 86/100 (4 stars)