Ardbeg 17 Year (Discontinued)

It's time to review another special Ardbeg release. This time, a highly sought-after and somewhat pricey expression: the legendary 17-year-old. Released in 1997, the spirit inside was distilled around 1980. A notable characteristic is its 40% ABV distillery bottling, which is unusual for Ardbeg, typically bottled at 46% ABV and non-chill filtered. It has a golden hue. On the nose, it's strikingly different from other Ardbegs. Cotton candy, mint, flowers, heather, incense, aromatic peat, and moss. After a few sips, it revealed a floral perfume with very subtle hints of chocolate and hazelnut. Further sips brought out a hand soap aroma. A lovely scent. On the palate, it lacks complexity; I wouldn't identify it as an Ardbeg in a blind tasting. Sugary water, salty water, and vanilla were present on the first sip. More sips revealed condensed milk and additional sugary notes, with a loss of intensity. The aftertaste was quite good. Classic smoke, BBQ sauce, bacon. A very long, rewarding finish. Herbal notes, grilled pork, and saltiness were present. Overall, this was a very good single malt, quite different from my expectations. I can't fault its balance—the nose is fantastic, the palate is above average, and the finish is great—but it doesn't feel like the best Ardbeg available. The palate significantly impacted the overall balance and final score. Make no mistake, I'd gladly drink it, but I wouldn't pay the current average price of $780. My score is a well-earned 90 out of 100.

As a discerning individual once remarked, "If palate perfection exists, this is it." It's difficult to add much more. This intricate and refined spirit will astound you with its power and elegance. The strong, smoky aroma transforms into waves of salt, caramel, and that touch of tar before a long, magnificent journey into the sunset. I was moved to tears knowing I might never encounter another bottle. If you find one, treasure it.

Nose presents fruit and complexity. The palate and finish are fruity, savory, smooth, with a touch of mild spice. Very easy to drink and surprisingly low on peat for an Ardbeg. An elegant, classic whisky that's always a crowd-pleaser, any time of day:)

A real jolt! Delicate and sophisticated – a subtle peat that allows the grain's sweetness to come through. Vanilla on the nose and palate, transitioning to dark fruits. The finish ends with melon and ripe fruit notes.

First experienced in 2003 at a party; it was the finest Scotch ever tasted, with an amazing flavor and smokiness. Smoke on the palate, followed by a long, full smoky finish. However, the bottle I later purchased wasn't quite as remarkable... The price was also from 2003.

Fantastic scotch! While I'm no connoisseur, this spirit truly excites my palate. Difficult to locate, but I'd grab multiple bottles if I found it again. Pricing from 2005.