Ardnamurchan cask strength is aged in a combination of ex-bourbon and sherry casks, with the majority being ex-bourbon. The average age of this whisky is seven years, which gives it a nice balance of maturity and vibrancy.
When you first nose this whisky, you'll be greeted with a soft peat aroma. It's not overpowering, but rather adds a subtle earthiness to the nose. Alongside the peat, you'll also detect hints of green olive, which brings a touch of savoury complexity to the whisky. There are also subtle notes of sherry, adding a touch of sweetness and depth.
Moving on to the palate, the barley sweetness shines through, providing a lovely backbone for the whisky. It's not overly sweet, but rather a pleasant, natural sweetness that complements the other flavors. The peat continues to make its presence known, but again, it's not dominant. It adds a layer of smokiness and depth to the overall profile.
The mouthfeel of this cask strength expression is rich and full-bodied, coating the tongue with its velvety texture. The unchill-filtered nature of this whisky allows it to retain all the natural oils and flavors, resulting in a more intense and satisfying experience.
As for the finish, it lingers on the palate with a gentle warmth. The flavors of the whisky gradually fade away, leaving a pleasant aftertaste that invites you to take another sip.
Now, let me share a personal experience with Ardnamurchan cask strength. I had the pleasure of trying this whisky during a visit to the distillery. The setting was stunning, with the distillery nestled on the picturesque Ardnamurchan Peninsula. As I took my first sip, I was immediately impressed by the complexity and balance of flavors. The soft peat, combined with the subtle sherry influence, created a harmonious and enjoyable drinking experience.
Ardnamurchan cask strength is a whisky that showcases the distillery's commitment to craftsmanship and quality. With an average age of seven years, it strikes a perfect balance between youthfulness and maturity. The nose offers hints of soft peat, green olive, and sherry, while the palate brings forth a delightful barley sweetness and smoky undertones. The unchill-filtered nature of this whisky ensures a rich and full-bodied mouthfeel, with a lingering finish that leaves you wanting more.