2020 was the year I discovered a love and appreciation for what Islay whiskies have to offer! ❤️
I was always a bit apprehensive, with the likes of the “blow yer heid aff” Laphroaig, being one of the first I ever nosed/tasted!
To be honest, I’m still not overly keen on those heavily medicinal notes, which I personally associate with a pungent pre-op iodine rinse. In saying that, I’ve never been a quitter and I’m determined to develop my palate!
@Ardbeg‘s newly introduced Ultimate Range whisky, Wee Beastie, was one of my favourite drams of 2020. For such a youthful spirit, there is no lack of complexity on the nose, or tongue-tingling palate!
This expression is bottled at a fierce 47.4% ABV and matured in both ex-bourbon and first fill Oloroso Sherry casks. 🤤
APPEARANCE: bright auric, with blonde hues.
NOSE: nosing the glass, I am taken aback by a behemoth rush of peat smoke and accompanying phenols. Hidden aromas surface; malted barley, sea spray, vanilla, pear, black liquorice, Weetabix, and tobacco. A weighty scent of smoked meats reveals itself, putting me in mind of my Dad’s hickory smoked, peppery Brisket Bark, after 16 hours in the pit. I’m enchanted by this alluring creation!
PALATE: The mouthfeel is chewy, thick, and oily, with a tongue-tingling kick! A brief initial sweetness is overcome by a monstrous surge of smoky peat and black pepper. Emerging from the depths are mammoth notes of creosote, tar, bonfire toffee, and spent coffee grounds. There’s a subtle sweetness, that of corn on the cob, along with a curious meatiness, reminiscent of a red wine salami or Scottish square sausage. The long and lingering finish is comprised of peat smoke, saline, malt, and smoked meats.
The Wee Beastie, another mightily intense, mythical creature from Scotland.
As I’ve mentioned in the past, I’ve long awaited a beguiling monstrous malt, which appeals to the young women of the world, and I’ve found it!
I can’t wait for restrictions to ease, so that I can introduce the Lassies (and Lads) to this colossal cratur. I’m sure it will make for a memorable imbibing experience.
Have a great week, friends.
Sláinte Mhath! 🥃
Maid of the Malt 