Ardbeg – An Oa (46.6%)

This is Ardbeg An Oa, a single malt from Islay with no age statement, bottled at 46.6%. It is named after the Mull of Oa, the headland south of the island. The whisky is built in a Gathering Vat from Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, virgin charred oak casks and ex-bourbon casks. The nose is gentle smoke like burning apple wood, with toffee, aniseed, molasses, dates, peach and banana. On the palate there is butterscotch, black pepper and clove, then peat balanced by dark chocolate, soft smoke and a salty note. The finish is smoky and salty, with smoked spices, dried fruit and a delicate creaminess.