Ardmore Legacy

I observed this for the first time in my region today (I am 70 years old) and it was on promotion for $28, compared to the usual $37. I had to try it. The bottle indicates lightly peated, but my initial impression was at least moderately (average) peat. After the bottle has been open for a day the peat level appears to lessen. I am finding this quite enjoyable. While it is not exceptionally complex, it is a fantastic blend of malt, subtle honey sweetness, and a pleasant hint of autumn smoke. In my opinion, whether right or wrong, this is an excellent example of a Highland peated Scotch. I should have purchased more. It's strange that the review of this spirit does not even mention the peat smoke.

Ardmore Legacy Aroma: citrus, light smoke and light peat, very delicate. Taste: rather watery, but embers and peat are noticeable, mixed with citrus and vanilla. Finish is short and light, though very balanced. A completely average whisky. Rating 3.50 _______________________________________________________ Ardmore Legacy Nose: citrus, light smoke and light peat, very delicate. Palate: quite watery, but embers and peat are felt, mixed with citrus and vanilla. Short and light finish, even if very balanced. Absolutely normal whisky. Score 3.50

Slightly oily with an initial taste of cereal and light vanilla, followed by mild oak, hay, floral notes, and a gentle peat smoke. As it progresses to the finish, it becomes drier, with a tannic and peppery medium-length finish. Very mild and light, it's an excellent introduction to peated malts and one I frequently suggest to those curious about peat. It's not exceptional, but it's a fantastic everyday sipper at a great price. I've convinced many people to switch from another brand (which has somewhat similar characteristics, though this one is superior).

Aroma: pear, bubblegum, bleach. Perhaps there is some vegetal peat in there too.....and possibly some stewed fruit as well. It's not terrible. Just...my reaction is "Um, what?" Taste: no, I am correct. It tastes like diluted vegetable broth that someone flavored with drain cleaner. Strangely though, it's not thin. There's enough oil to provide a decent finish. I hope someone enjoys it, because someone clearly put effort into making it. But it's not for me.

Smell suggests peat, disinfectant, and a touch of ripe pear. The taste is smooth and light, feels like around 34% ABV. There's a slight burn if it splashes your whole mouth. A little honey appears with water. A little apple and a little acidity. Overall, it's uninspiring. It's easy to drink, but yes, this is unremarkable and forgettable. And the cork is awful. It broke; the two-thirds remaining in the bottle were impossible to remove with a corkscrew, I ended up performing surgery on the cork. What a shame.

Nose: light and sweet, lemongrass, slightly chemical. Body: unusual initial taste... Paprika and apples? It disappears quickly, leaving gentle grass notes. Finish: very short and mild. Honey and minimal oak notes. Overall, the initial taste is not to my liking. Aside from that, it's very mild and gentle. Not very noteworthy.