This review was written and shared by Paul Martin

Ardbeg Ten Years Old Single Malt Whisky

ABV 46%

Proof 92

The Ardbeg 10-year is a prototypical Islay whisky. To start, an aggressive peat aroma dominates the nose. Phenols call to mind Lysol, lozenges, or a trip to the dentist’s chair. Smokiness evokes a campfire scene. Cinnamon, spice, and pine cones round out the nose.

Peat continues its dominance on the palate. The medicinal quality lingers, but the campfire transforms into the taste of an extinguished cigar. A few drops of water dampen the phenols but enhance the cinnamon and spice, which remind me of Big Red gum or Red Hots. On occasion, hints of licorice, bar soap, and green bell peppers surprise me. Smoke, phenols, cinnamon, and spice combine for a long, smooth finish.

The Ardbeg 10-year’s strong peat profile embodies the characteristic taste of Islay whiskies. In fact, many lovers of peat hold it in the same regard as the Laphroaig 10-year and the Lagavulin 16-year. Although similar in some respects, each of these famed malts delivers a unique flavor profile. In my opinion, the Ardbeg is the smokiest of them all.