Ardnamurchan AD/03.21:02

For me, Ardnamurchan has come to represent good quality at a fair price. While it is a non-age-statement whisky, the quality is evident, as is their dedication to producing spirits using renewable energy. And they utilize blockchain technology! How impressive is that? A $10,000 Macallan lacks this feature (which it should, as they are the most frequently faked), but a $60 Ardnamurchan can afford it? This sample was sent by a friend. It's a blend of 50% peated and 50% unpeated malt, matured in a mix of ex-bourbon and Sherry casks (65% /35%). The aroma is citrus and minerals. A hint of wet stone. Light smoke comes through on the taste, along with pear, grapefruit, and a touch of smokiness. It's exceptionally well-crafted, and considering the cost, it's a definite must-have. Thank you to my friend for the sample!

The aroma is floral and wonderful both from the cork and when poured. In the glass, the aroma becomes stronger and more intense, with peat. It starts with peat but isn't overpowering, with some nice spice – it's cool. It's different. Adding ice makes it sweeter, naturally, and it's approachable no matter how you drink it. It's good, cool, and unique. The smoke lingers.

This is an exceptional Scotch for the price; it's an amazing value. The aroma is sweet, reminiscent of wine or grapes, with a faint bit of honey and the slightest hint of peat. The palate is more honey and fruit with spice and a bit of salt. It has a medium finish, but the warmth lingers a bit longer. (46.8% ABV)

Roasty, berry aromas on the nose. Like drinking a rich, full-bodied merlot by a wood fire in autumn, an experience I've never had. Perhaps a touch of peach too. Nutty, chocolatey flavors on the palate. The berries recede, and earthy malt becomes more prominent. The finish is satisfying and long. A wonderful small scotch.

It should be noted that the batch tasted is 10.22:04. Aroma of smoke, new leather, salty air, and a slight menthol note. On the palate, these flavors are balanced by notes of caramel, white pepper, and caramelized malt. As a young whisky from a very new distillery, the quality is undeniable!

Light, very subtle peat aroma. The peat flavors are more noticeable on the palate but are considerably more balanced than the intensity of something like Ardbeg. Richness carries the smoke along with other pronounced flavors, nearing barbecue. Very well integrated, extremely enjoyable.