Ardbeg 11 Years Old Gordon & MacPhail Spirit of Scotland 58.4% 1990

Professionele reviews

BOW (90)

Ardbeg 11 Years Old Gordon & MacPhail Spirit of Scotland Timeless Ode to Islay's Peaty Prowess

In the windswept landscapes of Islay, where the sea meets the rugged shores, lies the Ardbeg Distillery—a bastion of peaty perfection. The Ardbeg 11 Years Old, a creation of the esteemed Gordon & MacPhail for their Spirit of Scotland series, is a testament to the distillery's legacy and the artistry of independent bottling. Distilled in 1990 and bottled in 2001, this expression captures the essence of Ardbeg's peaty prowess. With a bold ABV of 58.4%, this release is a journey through the untamed spirit of Islay.

The Maturation Tale:
The Ardbeg 11 Years Old Gordon & MacPhail Spirit of Scotland underwent a maturation journey that spanned over a decade within the hallowed warehouses of Ardbeg Distillery. Distilled in 1990, this expression was carefully nurtured by the casks it rested in until its bottling in 2001. Gordon & MacPhail, renowned for their commitment to excellence in independent bottling, selected this cask for their Spirit of Scotland series, showcasing Ardbeg's peat-driven character.

Tasting Notes:
As the golden elixir graces the glass, it unveils a symphony of aromas and flavors that epitomize the peaty allure of Islay.

Nose:
The first encounter is a smoky embrace that defines the Ardbeg experience. Waves of peat smoke mingle with maritime influences, creating a briny sea air that permeates the senses. Undertones of medicinal notes and iodine add a medicinal complexity, reminiscent of the Islay coastline. The nose is a harmonious balance of robust peatiness, bracing freshness, and a subtle undercurrent of vanilla sweetness.

Taste:
On the palate, the Ardbeg 11 Years Old offers an intense and assertive experience, characteristic of Islay's peaty powerhouses. The peat smoke takes center stage, enveloping the taste buds in a rich and earthy embrace. Notes of charred oak and hints of leather add depth, while a touch of vanilla and citrus sweetness provides a counterpoint to the boldness. The taste is a symphony of Islay's elemental forces, leaving an indelible mark on the palate.

Finish:
The grand finale is a lingering finish that reverberates with the echoes of peat. The smoke evolves into a subtle warmth, leaving a lasting impression of Islay's untamed spirit. The finish is a testament to the enduring legacy of Ardbeg, where the sea, the earth, and the peat come together in a final flourish.

Conclusion:
The Ardbeg 11 Years Old Gordon & MacPhail Spirit of Scotland is more than a whisky; it is an ode to the elemental forces that define Islay. Gordon & MacPhail's selection for the Spirit of Scotland series captures the essence of Ardbeg's peaty prowess, offering enthusiasts a taste of Islay's rugged beauty. As each sip unfolds, it is a journey through time, where the untamed spirit of Islay comes to life, leaving an enduring imprint on the palate—a testament to the enduring allure of Ardbeg.