Ardbeg – Dark Cove

A limited edition Ardbeg from Islay, released for Ardbeg Day 2016, when the distillery held an open day during the Islay festival. The name Dark Cove refers to the island's smuggling past, when smugglers worked unseen at night. It was matured in ex-sherry and ex-bourbon casks, which give a smoky, spicy character with a touch of sweetness. The nose is rich, earthy and spicy, with dark chocolate, orange, toffee, coffee and oak over a smoky base. On the palate, bitter and sweet notes of raisin, date, ginger and pepper give way to charcoal, wood stain and tar oil. The finish is long and spicy, with toffee, coffee and tar.