Ladies, gentlemen and Ardbeggians, step right up and behold a marvel of maturation! Introducing this year’s limited edition release, Ardbeg Spectacular. Presenting a spectacle of showstopping flavors – a whisky that exhibits all manner of peculiar notes and aromas. For the first time in Ardbeg’s history, this malt has been matured in rare port wine casks, then married with classic bourbon barrels. Darker in nature, the port wine barrels bring a devilishly sweet side to this classically smoky Ardbeg.

Curiously perfumed and aromatic, with lovely, fragrant top notes like lavender, vetiver and incense candles. Underneath are deeper notes of leather, almond nuttiness, and a touch of wax. A splash of water opens up the bouquet, revealing woodsmoke, damp peat moss, a hint of menthol and more antique leather. The mouthfeel is salty, but viscous at the same time, and leads in to a burst of huge, salty, savory, smoky flavors – eucalyptus oil, salted caramel toffee, smoked pecan nuts, fragrant woodsmoke, creosote and tar. There is also a background sweetness, like a smoky pear crumble and some fudge.