Ardbeg Corryvreckan
Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
57.1% ABV
$88-$100
Website
What the Distillery Says
Ardbeg Corryvreckan takes its name from the famous whirlpool that lies to the north of Islay, where only the bravest souls dare to venture. Swirling aromas and torrents of deep, peaty, peppery taste lurk beneath the surface of this beautifully balanced dram. Like the whirlpool itself, Corryvreckan is not for the faint-hearted! Awarded The World’s Best Single Malt in 2010 by the World Whiskies Awards.
Non chill-filtered at 57.1% ABV
TASTING NOTES
COLOR: Rich Amber
AROMA: Heady, intense and powerful. Swirl the glass and dip your nose into the torrents of tarry ropes, creosote and linseed oil rising from deep within the vortex. A collision of waxy dark chocolate, warm blackcurrants and muscovado sugar pulls you under its spell with a burst of plump cherries and earthy pine needles leaping from its depths. From salty seasoning comes a briny character with tangy crisp seaweed and smoky bacon swirling on the surface with hints of sweet vanilla, spicy cloves and blueberries. Surrender to its dangerous depths with the heady force of menthol, treacle and chilli sauce.
TASTE: Plunge into the whirlpool and torrents of taste well up on the palate; deep, peppery and chewy, bombarding the tongue. The first plunge brings forth chewy peppered steak soaked in pepper sauce with the tang of crispy seaweed. As you descend deeper, encounter a mouthful of black tarry espresso coffee that coats the palate with rich melted dark fruits (blackcurrants, blueberries and cherries) and bitter almonds. As the taste soaks in deeper, star anise and hickory dry out the palate before a surprise of chalky effervescent violets fizz to the surface.
FINISH: Long, deep and remaining powerful into the finish with black tarry coffee, chocolate coated cherries and hot pepper sauce, the lingering memories of your mysterious and daring journey into Corryvreckan.
What Gary Says
Nose: Rich and intense peat smoke, salted sea weed, leather, barbecue pulled pork, ashy, some fruit notes underneath, medicinal, a hint of sardines.
Palate: Smoky peat and dark chocolate, white cracked pepper, vanilla, honey, soft fruit notes of pears and peaches.
Finish: Moderately long with peat smoke and a touch of honey.
Comments: Some folks might knock the fact that this is non-age stated (meaning it could include young single malt). While I would applaud transparency, what I care most about is what the whisk(e)y delivers. This is a lovely, intense dram – easily one of my favorite Ardbegs. Nothing about it is objectionable, or even disappointing to be honest. It isn’t just that at the high proof it brings an amazing intensity (which it does), but it has layers of complexity that I really enjoy. Very fitting name, as I nose this I feel I’m being slowly pulled into the dram, with something new unveiled if I’m patient. A stellar pour of peaty, briny goodness!.