Ardbeg – Dark Cove Committee Release 2015 (70cl, 55%)

Ardbeg Dark Cove is an Islay single malt released in 2015 exclusively for Ardbeg Committee members, the year the distillery marked its 200th birthday. It was bottled on 23 November 2015 at cask strength, 55% ABV, in a 70cl bottle, without colouring or chill-filtration. The whisky matured in a combination of ex-bourbon casks and dark sherry casks, with toasted wood chosen for what is described as the darkest whisky the distillery has made. The nose is fruity with clear smoke, pepper and oak, along with chocolate and nuts. The palate is creamy, with intense peat smoke, sweet chocolate and dark fruit, and spicy wood towards the back. The finish is long and spicy, with coffee, toffee and tar.