Ardbeg – 25 Year Old Batch 2 (70cl)

This is the second batch of Ardbeg 25 Year Old, an Islay single malt released in a very limited edition. It was bottled from rare casks filled during the difficult years for the distillery and for whisky generally. It matured in ex-bourbon casks, which is unusual for Ardbeg. The nose combines smoked cream and campfire smoke with pine and the wax of a scented candle. The palate has gentle peppery spice alongside the sweetness of lemon sorbet. The finish brings a hint of carbolic soap and tar, with a creamy caramel flavour touched by aniseed that stays on the palate.