Ardmore 2008/2023 13 Years - Signatory Vintage
The Ardmore 2008 from Signatory Vintage is a Highland whisky which, with its 13 years of maturation, impressively demonstrates how complex and exciting the smoky whiskies from the Ardmore distillery can be.
Tasting Notes
Nose
This whisky reveals its smoky soul from the very first contact. A dense peaty flavour is combined with notes of tobacco and a fascinating iodine component reminiscent of a maritime adventure. At the same time, a sweet vanilla note resonates, giving the flavour profile a gentle balance.
Palate
In the mouth, the Ardmore 2008 unfolds with an oily, almost creamy texture. The campfire flavour is present, but not overwhelming, rather embedded in fruity-salty nuances. The fruitiness is reminiscent of juicy pears and a hint of pineapple, which blend surprisingly harmoniously with the smoky character
Finish
The finish is of medium length and leaves a pleasant smoky note, accompanied by salty and maritime tones. It feels like a cool sea breeze after a night by the campfire - a harmonious end.
Thoughts
Marcel 78/100
This Ardmore 2008 is a true pleasure seeker: smoke, fruit, and maritime notes flirt with each other here in an effortless way. For anyone craving a robust Highland whisky with character and a touch of campfire romance, this is a real winner – it makes the whisky heart smile!
Sascha 82/100
The Ardmore 2008 impresses with its clear structure and balanced interplay between smoky and fruity elements. The combination of an oily texture and maritime notes makes it a technically sophisticated Highland whisky that remains surprisingly approachable despite its strong ABV.
Value for Money: Fair
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78/100Frequently Asked Questions
How does the 13-year maturation influence the taste of the Ardmore 2008/2023?
The 13-year aging imparts a balanced complexity to the Ardmore 2008. The whisky marries intense smokiness with fruity and sweet notes like vanilla, pear, and pineapple, without the peat flavor becoming overpowering.
Why is the 59% alcohol content of the Ardmore 2008/2023 relevant for the tasting?
At 59% ABV, this whisky is powerful and intense. The higher alcohol content amplifies the aromas and provides an oily texture, but it also calls for careful tasting or dilution to optimally perceive the balance of flavor notes.
What role does the maritime iodine note play in the aroma profile of this Highland whisky?
The maritime iodine note introduces a salty, slightly medicinal element reminiscent of a sea breeze. It complements the smoky and peaty notes, giving the Ardmore 2008 a distinctive freshness and depth typical of some Highland distillates.