88 / 100
A 14-year-old Scottish Highland single malt from Ardmore, with the 2010 vintage and bourbon-cask detail giving it a clear identity. The character balances caramelised demerara sugar and apple strudel against soft, coastal peat, then turns more citrusy and peppery on the palate. That smoky-sweet contrast is appealing, though the menthol and cracked black pepper in the finish point toward a firmer, less easygoing close. A well-defined choice for someone who likes peat with sweetness and spice rather than peat alone.
Reviewed by cloudberrywren
- Nose
- Crispy smoked bacon, Caramelised demerara sugar, Soft peat, Fresh honey, Apple strudel, Subtle smoke
- Palate
- Cloves, Mulled wine, Coastal peat, Lemon, Citrus, Shortbread, Butterscotch, Fudge, Peppery spice
- Finish
- Spearmint, Soft peat smoke, Menthol, Applewood smoke, Sea salt, Cracked black pepper