ARDBEG Dark Cove Limited Edition

This bottling was officially released in honor of Ardbeg Day 2016, which was held May 28th during Islay Fest. Official bottle details are vague in keeping with the Ardbeg way; they do say that "black or dark sherry" barrels were used in the aging as well as ex-bourbon barrels. This is a no-age statement release and is bottled at 46.5% ABV. Please note that there is a higher-proof Committee Release bottling as well, which is a more limited release version.

TASTING NOTES

COLOUR: Deep gold with golden reflections that, in the light, seem almost like dark amber liquids. Its hue evokes the warmth of a sunset over the ocean, a whiskey that already promises intensity from the first glance.

NOSE: At first fleshy, earthy and spicy. Bold dark chocolate notes emerge, orange, treacle syrup, caramel, coffee and oak, smoky in the background, along with a mysterious floral note, such as blackcurrant bush flower and linseed oil.

MOUTH: The mouthfeel is almost tart, spicy. Sultanas, dates, ginger and pepper. Waves of burning charcoal, huge tar notes, finally escaping notes of smoked ham.

FINISH: Long, spicy and rich with lingering notes of caramel, coffee and tar.