Ardlair 10 years 2014 - 2024 #900544 First Cask

The Ardlair 10 years 2014-2024 #900544, bottled by Whisky Import Netherlands, is an impressive and special whisky from the non-peated variety of the famous Ardmore distillery. This cask, a first fill Sherry Hogshead, has given this whisky an intense flavour experience by maturing for ten years and absorbing the full aromas of the sherry casks.

Tasting note

Nose

The nose opens with rich, sweet aromas of sultanas, dried figs, and dates, typical of a first-fill sherry cask. It is a warming and inviting aroma, with notes of dark chocolate and a hint of espresso developing in the background. After a few minutes in the glass, light hints of toasted nuts and orange peel emerge, providing a nice balance of sweet and nutty aromas.

Taste

On the first sip, a full and silky flavour emerges. The sherry influences are immediately present, with notes of dark caramel, currants, and a hint of blackcurrant. The midpalate is complex and well balanced, with influences of toasted almonds, leather and a touch of cinnamon bringing out the spiciness of the whisky. The texture is creamy, contributing to the richness of the flavour.

Finish

The finish is long and warming, with a nice aftertaste of dried fruit and dark chocolate. A subtle bitterness of oak emerges, followed by a final hint of clove and pepper. The sherry influences remain present for a long time, making for an impressive conclusion to the whisky experience.

Ardmore Distillery

Ardmore Distillery is located in the Eastern Highlands of Scotland, near the village of Kennethmont in Aberdeenshire. Founded in 1898 by Adam Teacher, son of whisky pioneer William Teacher, Ardmore has a rich history of whisky production. The distillery was originally built to support the growing demand for Teachers Highland Cream blended whisky.

A unique feature of Ardmore is its use of traditionally peated barley, resulting in a smoky single malt, a rarity in the Highland region. This gives Ardmore whiskies a distinct and robust flavour profile with notes of smoke, honey, vanilla and spices. The distillery gets its water from natural springs in the surrounding hills, which contributes to the purity of their whiskies.

Ardmore whiskies are mainly matured in ex-bourbon casks, which provides a nice balance between sweetness and smokiness. Besides their peated expressions, Ardmore also produces unpeated whiskies that show a lighter, fruitier side.

The combination of a beautiful location, historical traditions and unique flavour profiles makes Ardmore a respected name in the world of Scotch single malt whisky.