Ardbeg Ardcore Committee Release
Inspired by the punk past from the 1970s, Ardbeg releases Ardcore as this year's committee release. By the way, it is said to taste "like biting a spiky ball".The releases are very polarising. Very interesting for collectors and sold out just as quickly, those who want to taste the latest Committee release often don't get their money's worth.
Tasting Notes
Nose
At first, the smell reminds us more of a Laphroaig than an Ardbeg. We identify phenolic smoke that fades into a steam note. It reminds us of neatly burnt toast. Fighting through the smoke, an Ardbeg-typical vanilla-citrus note emerges. This is accompanied by roasted malt and ham.
Palate
The typical Ardbeg anise with a certain seawater saltiness hovers over a not-so-intense campfire ember flavour. Gradually, vanilla and chocolate fight their way to the fore. We would have expected more chocolateiness from the dark roasted barley malt. Roasted aromas are present, but rather subtle. Overall, not much, we have to say, unfortunately.
Finish
The spicy-dry finish is medium long, but that's not what we've come to expect from Ardbeg. Not very impressive.
Thoughts
Marcel 71/100
An Ardbeg that, with its punk attitude, stays rather tame – solid, but without the expected kick. Certainly interesting for collectors, but for drinkers seeking fire and drama, it’s more of a gentle breeze.
Sascha 77/100
A well-balanced Islay whisky with a clear structure, yet it lacks the complexity and intensity one expects from an Ardbeg. The price-performance ratio and flavor variety could be better.
Value for Money: Very expensive
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How does the Ardbeg Ardcore Committee Release differ in taste from other Ardbeg bottlings?
Compared to typical Ardbeg whiskies, the Ardcore shows a stronger smoky note reminiscent of Laphroaig, with phenolic smoke and burnt toast. The vanilla-citrus notes are present, but the campfire aroma and roasted flavors come across as overall more subtle and less intense than in other Ardbeg releases.
Why is the Ardbeg Ardcore Committee Release particularly interesting for collectors?
The Ardcore is part of Ardbeg’s limited Committee Releases, which appear annually and often sell out quickly. Its strong polarization and connection to Islay’s punk past make it a sought-after collector’s item that isn’t always easy to find.
What aromas can be discovered in the Ardbeg Ardcore besides the smoke?
Alongside the characteristic phenolic smoke and burnt toast, vanilla and citrus notes come forward, accompanied by roasted malt and a salty sea breeze. On the palate, subtle hints of chocolate and anise complement the tasting experience.