This is Ardbeg’s 2020 limited edition release, with the Ardbeg Committee edition bottled at a higher strength than the regular version to be released in June. Both, of course, spent an additional five years in New Zealand Pinot  Noir wine casks after being traditionally matured in ex-Bourbon casks.

The nose has a gentle peatiness and medicinal character, along with touches of fresh cherries, soft oak, crème brûlée, and a hint of fresh berries. The taste is mouth-coating, dry, and astringent with white pepper, allspice, and anise along with with cherries, raspberry jam, and a hint of oak. The finish is long, smooth, and fruity with a dry mouthfeel and lingering spices. Not ba-a-a-a-d! (March, 2020)