Ardmore whisky is a single malt Scotch whisky produced at the Ardmore distillery, located in the picturesque Aberdeenshire region of Scotland. The distillery was founded in 1898 by Adam Teacher, who recognized its strategic location close to the Northern railway line, allowing easy transportation of materials from Glasgow to the remote location. This helped the distillery to flourish in its early years.
The Ardmore whisky is known for its sweet cinnamon, fresh honey, and vanilla toffee aroma, which gives it a unique flavor profile. On the palate, the whisky has more charred, smoky notes, joined by drying oak, pear drops, and subtle grassy touches. It takes a minute for citrus zest and expressive heather to appear, adding to the complexity of the flavor.
The whisky has a lasting peat smoke finish, with a litle bit of honeyed barley for good measure. It is smooth and sweet with hints of smoke and peat, making it a popular choice among whisky enthusiasts.
The remaining Ardmore produced through autumn and winter is peated to approximately 12 to 14 ppm, giving the distillate a medium peated character. This is sometimes boosted by the use of ex-Islay casks, usually from fellow Beam Suntory distillery Laphroaig. This adds to the smoky, peaty flavor of the whisky, making it a favorite among peat lovers.
Ardmore whisky is a popular choice for both novice and experienced whisky drinkers. Its unique flavor profile and smooth finish make it a versatile drink that can be enjoyed on its own or mixed in cocktails. The distillery continues to produce high-quality whisky, maintaining its reputation as one of Scotland's finest distilleries.
Ardmore whisky is a must-try for any whisky enthusiast. Its unique flavor profile, smooth finish, and peaty notes make it stand out among other single malt Scotch whiskies. Whether you are a novice or an experienced whisky drinker, Ardmore whisky is sure to delight your taste buds.
Origin of Ardmore Whisky
Ardmore whisky originates from the Ardmore distillery, which is located in the Aberdeenshire region of Scotland. Specifically, the distillery is situated near the village of Kennethmont, which is in the northern part of the country. The Ardmore distillery is notable for its high elevation, as it sits at a height of 600 feet above sea level. This location was strategically chosen by founder Adam Teacher, as it allowed for easy transportation of materials via the nearby Northern railway line. Ardmore whisky is a product of the Scottish Highlands and is known for its unique flavor profile and smoky character.
The Taste of Ardmore Whisky
Ardmore whisky is known for its smoky and peaty character, which is evident on the palate. The smokiness is accompanied by notes of charred oak and subtle grassy touches. As the whisky opens up, there are also hints of sweet cinnamon, fresh honey, and vanilla toffee, adding complexity to the overall flavor profile. On the finish, the peat smoke lingers with a touch of honeyed barley, leaving a lasting impression. The whisky also has a subtle citrus zest and expressive heather notes, which add to its depth and complexity. Ardmore whisky is a well-balanced and flavorful whisky, with a distinct smoky character that sets it apart from oher whiskies.
How Ardmore Compares to Other Peaty Whiskies
Ardmore produces peated whisky during the autumn and winter months, with a peat level of approximately 12 to 14 parts per million (ppm). This gives the whisky a medium level of peatiness. However, Ardmore sometimes uses ex-Islay casks from its sister distillery, Laphroaig, to boost the peat character of the whisky. the level of peatiness in Ardmore whisky can vary, but typically falls within the medium range.
Conclusion
Ardmore whisky is a true gem of Aberdeenshire, with its unique location and history adding to its charm. The use of peat, albeit in a moderate amount, adds a layer of complexity to the spirit, making it stand out among other whiskies. The notes of cinnamon, honey, vanilla, and heather, along with the subtle smokiness, create a well-balanced flavor profile that is both smooth and sweet. Ardmore whisky is a testament to the distillery's dedication to using traditional methods and producing high-quality spirits. It is a must-try for any whisky enthusiast looking for a unique and flavorful experience.
