When we tasted the Auriverdes, we thought we could pour another Ardbeg NAS alongside it. So we choose a sample of Ar1, from the Elements of Islay series by Speciality Drinks (50 cl bottles, peated malts from Islay like chemical elements on a periodic table). Thanks to Andrea for the present.
N: compared to the Auriverdes, this Ar1 is definitely more naked and citrusy (lemon, indeed). A beautiful, vegetal and marine peat stands out, reminding of seaweed and fish. The sweetness is recognizable, rather standard for a ex-bourbon maturation: vanilla and warm pastry. The smokiness is remarkably intense. A simple and tense Ardbeg. Perfect. With water it’s a bit more open, but it doesn’t change.
P: what a body, what an intensity, what a vehemence! Definetely consistent with the nose, showing a sober islander sturdiness. Lemon, ash, sea water. Later, the peat: acrid, vegetal and nervously young. The sweet side is still here, but it remains in the background. Flavor of sugary lemonade, simple but calling you to have a second and a third sip. With water, the “drink me now” effect is even more strong.
F: an austere dryness surrounded by extinguished embers. Again that vegetal peat. Licorice.
Talking about Auriverdes, we noticed how the palate showed the “engineered” profile. And we slightly complained about it, even if we enjoyed the whisky… The reason of the complaint is in this glass: an incredibly pure Ardbeg, honest, cruel in the best way and without any bells and whistles (the use of aggressive casks for the maturation). Ardbeg, simple as that: 87/100.
Recommended soundtrack: Elton John – Belfast.
