RECYCLING OF ARDBEG TEN – Rating: 7/10
Moët Hennessy, the proprietor of Ardbeg, is a frequent contributor to Duty Free, regularly releasing special editions for the travel retail market.
The Smoketrails version 1 (a second version has recently been unveiled) is the result of maturation in virgin American oak casks and finishing in Manzanilla casks.
The term “smoketrail” alludes to the streaks left in the sky by airplanes, offering a nod to the duty-free air travel market, as well as the smoky emanations experienced during the tasting of this malt.
Smoke emerges from the very first drops, accompanying an earthy peat reminiscent of the distinctive Ardbeg Ten. The new American oak cask brings forth the typical vanilla notes intertwined with unique hints of Champagne yeast aromas.
An honest whisky for aficionados of smoky peat.