Ardbeg – 10 Year Old (70cl, 46%)

Ardbeg 10 Year Old is an Islay single malt matured in bourbon casks and bottled at 46% ABV in a 70cl bottle. It is non-chill-filtered and of natural colour. Ardbeg makes it on Islay's rocky south coast, where a purifier on the lyne arm of the still contributes to its balance. Despite its marked smoke, a fruity, floral sweetness acts as a counterpoint, with a touch of liquorice root adding spice. The nose opens with smoky fruit, lemon and lime, then strong menthol and tarred rope; with water, mineral sea air and salty spray appear. The palate starts with pronounced peat, then brine, buttermilk and ripe banana. The long, smoky finish combines dry espresso and clinging peat oils.