ARDBEG SINGLE CASK 272

Description

Ardbeg Single Cask No. 272: eight years of maturation for an exceptional Islay whisky

On the Scottish island of Islay, the Ardbeg distillery is renowned for its peaty single malts, which are powerful and deeply smoky. Single Cask No. 272 offers a rare interpretation of this style, enhanced by maturation in a Manzanilla cask. Distilled on 20 February 2013 under the supervision of Dr Bill Lumsden, this whisky was aged for eight years before being bottled in 2021. Only 671 bottles were drawn from this single cask.

The choice of Manzanilla is key to the identity of this release. This style of dry sherry, known for its salty nuances, adds an extra dimension to Ardbeg’s smoky character. The nose is powerful and complex, blending Brazil nuts, candle wax, muscovado sugar and smoky orange. Upon aeration, notes of caramel, leather and creamy coffee round out the bouquet.

On the palate, the texture is oily and almost syrupy. Molasses, aniseed and nuts mingle with notes of leather and tar, before giving way to a smokiness reminiscent of the embers of a wood fire. The finish is particularly long, with salty and medicinal notes that linger on the palate.

Bottled at its natural strength of 60.9% ABV, this single malt possesses remarkable aromatic intensity. It deserves careful tasting, in a tulip-shaped glass, starting neat and then, if desired, adding a few drops of water. This approach allows you to appreciate the evolution of its aromas without masking its character.

With its unique maturation, a limited run of 671 bottles and an identity deeply rooted in Islay, the Ardbeg Single Cask No. 272 is a sought-after favourite amongst lovers of peated whiskies and collectors of rare bottles.