Ardbeg Still Young

I finally sampled the small 3cl portion I purchased ages ago. At the time, I hesitated between buying a full bottle or a sample, thinking, "A very young Ardbeg... who would actually purchase it?!" Hindsight is 20/20. What was once an affordable $40 bottle is now a highly sought-after collectible valued in the hundreds. This bottling is undeniably young, as the "Still Young" label clearly indicates. Despite its youth, it is remarkably good. The aroma is dominated by seaweed and brine. The taste is salty, briny, bacon-like, and lemony – it truly hits the spot. However, the "Still Young" aspect becomes apparent in the finish. Even Ardbeg cannot overcome the constraints of chemistry; the finish is sharp and biting. While I enjoyed the scent and flavor, the finish unfortunately reveals its immaturity. This is not surprising, given its chemical composition. It hasn't had sufficient time to mellow with the wood. If tasted without knowledge of its market value, I'm unsure if I would opt for a bottle, as it feels too rough and aggressive.

Ardbeg Still Young, 1998-2006 An intense single malt from Islay, Scotland, UK, part of a range from Ardbeg exploring the effects of aging on their superb single malt whisky. Still Young is the second phase, aged for 8 years. It begins with notes of rich toffee, creamy sweetness, tangy peat, citrus, tarry & smoky bacon; followed by a spicy & powerful development with notes of cut fruits, citrus. Phenolic, burning rubber & bitumen; leading to a long, hot & spicy conclusion with plenty of smoke, a little brine & fruit. August 2017 / April 2018 / August 2022

It was in my collection, but I accidentally broke the cork, allowing me to try it. Needs to rest for at least 2 months or more after opening. First sip: Sharp like the Soviet emblem's sickle, and as hard as the hammer. Intense peat smoke, sweet lemon, vanilla, salty, and peppery. Finish is slightly ashy, with oily leather and tobacco notes.

Suggests medicine.