Ardbeg Blaaack

Ardbeg Blaaack, NAS, 46 %

Here it is, the annual release for Ardbeg Day. The 2020 incarnation is called Ardbeg Blaaack. It is a NAS whisky finished in New Zealand Pinot Noir casks. The name is (probably) a reference to the distillery calling itself the black sheep of the Islay distilleries, and the fact that there are a few sheep on New Zealand..

The Ardbeg Blaack sold at NOK 1315 (11849101) in Norway but is now sold out. It certainly does feel a bit too pricey.

Nose: Rich, warm and cozy peatiness. Vanilla, baked, ripe apples and a hint of honey. The peat, the ashes and the smokiness is very much to the forefront, but it is mellow, soft and cuddly. Chocolate, a cup of cocoa with marshmallows, cocoa nibs drizzled with icing sugar and caramel sauce.

Taste: Rich and of medium+ body. Chocolate peat, ashes, icing sugar, and more apples.

Finish: Medium long finish. Ashes, dry chocolate and cocoa nibs now. A hint of coffee even. In the end even darker notes of chocolate and now with a rich mint filling -> think After Eight mint chocolate.

Comment: The nose is familiar and very much enjoyable, but on the palate it is a bit underwhelming.

Score 86/100

Image from Master of Malt.

Sláinte!
- Thomas