Ardbeg – 25 Year Old Special Release 2022

This is the 2022 Special Release from Ardbeg, a 25 year old single malt matured entirely in ex-bourbon casks. The nose opens with smoked cream, mint and toffee, with Ardbeg's familiar fennel and pine resin, campfire smoke, herbs, banana and tropical fruit, and scented candle wax. On the palate a lively, peppery spiciness gives way to creamy lemon sorbet with candied apples, pears and oranges, a hint of carbolic soap and tar, then toffee, aniseed and chilli pepper. The finish is long and mild, with cream, butter toffee and delicate antiseptic notes.