Ardmore Traditional Cask

Ladies and Gentlemen, I have finally experienced whisky. If you have not tried Ardmore Traditional Cask, you have not truly experienced whisky. It is one of the most exciting, fulfilling, marvelous, and rewarding experiences I have ever had with a whisky. I kept it aside for a long time in my bar, as it didn't capture my attention. I read a review yesterday and decided to give it a try. I am glad I did. So far, this is the top whisky of 2017 for me and it is a perfect 10. On the nose, Peat. Peat, peat, peat, peat. Perfumed peat. Islay Peat (although it is a highland single malt), that kind of peat, somewhat resembling a Talisker. Also on the nose: faint notes of almonds, medicinal plants, toffee, and something metallic that smells exactly like my gold wedding ring. Bottled at 46% ABV with a polished mahogany color, non-chill filtered. If it was wonderful on the nose, you cannot even imagine it on the palate. Full-bodied, thick, it begins with caramel, to rapidly transform into a spicy explosion, a gentle heat, spicy wood, all the spices on earth, spices mixed with angels, spices to the core. Bonfire, peat, and clove. All that wrapped in spices. The finish is long and mouth-watering, with peat and heat. Simply amazing. It made my Friday, exactly what you expect to unwind with after a hard week of work. It is so good I have already texted every friend I have to find this bottle and buy it. I had the dram 10 minutes ago and my mouth still tastes of ash. A BEAUTIFUL, PERFECT DRAM, HISTORY HAS BEEN MADE HERE. CHEERS!

Bottled in 2008. Here's a bottle from the era when No-Age-Statement bottlings had to prove their worth, and many offered great value. That was when the industry lured people in; now it's a complete trap. Ardmore isn't a brand for collectors, so the Traditional Cask can still be found collecting dust in some places. Don't mistake this for the current Ardmore Tradition release, which is terrible. This Ardmore is like a Talisker 10, but less maritime and fruitier. It has fruity licorice, honey, dark chocolate, and a distinct smokiness not found in today's NAS releases. The smoke is captivating – soft and delicate, yet coating the mouth with honey and barbecue flavors. What I dislike is the sulfurous fire from the sherry casks used. However, this is still a very good whisky for the price, and I will try to find another bottle. Score: * (unforgettably good) Bottle cost: $35-60 (discontinued) My perceived bottle value: $60

An interesting single malt indeed. The nose and palate offer distinct tastes. On the nose, there's a very subtle peat aroma, with more emphasis on dried fruits. Upon tasting, however, strong peated notes emerge first, along with burnt charcoal and some bitter elements reminiscent of licorice marmalade and pepper. The aftertaste is neither short nor overly long, but sufficient to appreciate the evolving flavors in the mouth, which include sweetness, honey, and dried fruits. Consequently, it stands out as a very good peated whisky with its own unique character.

The nose presents a fine, light peat. Not complex. The taste isn't too strong, but it's intense. It doesn't have the distinct character of a Springbank, as a shop employee suggested it would. It's delicious with a 3-year-aged cheese. Leaves an aftertaste somewhat like chamomile or mint stars.

On the earthy side. Peat is present, but does not overwhelm. A solid whiskey that completes a collection, good if you have a bit of a cold and still want to enjoy a whiskey (not for the faint of heart).

Like a younger sibling to Highland Park 12; comparable in taste profile, but with less refinement, fewer subtleties. Considering it's a No Age Statement scotch, it's quite enjoyable though!