In April 2012 Ardbeg sent some of its new-make spirit up into space to make Ardbeg the first inter-stellar whisky, so it came as little surprise that in September 2012, at the British Space Centre, the Ardbeg Galileo was LAUNCHED (apologies). All of this marketing aside, it's still pretty damn good, unlike recent Ardbegs the Galileo features an age statement (1999-2012) and contains whisky matured in both ex-Marsala and ex-Bourbon barrels.
This bottle was part of a private collection - if you'd like more detailed info and/or photos just get in touch!
Pineapple slices and desiccated coconut rocket out of the glass followed by toffee and spice, finally there is a big phenolic launch-pad of peat.
When the Ardbeg smoke clears the first step is salty, before cream and dried apricots land.
The finish is soft and sweet, with earthy smoke swirling about.
This is a fairly sweet Ardbeg and at 49%abv not there strongest offering, however it is as smoky and complex as you could want it. An inter-stellar Ardbeg indeed.
I actually bought 2 after taste testing it at an Ardbeg event for its release. I opened one to enjoy and the other to keep. It was excellent. Less peaty and a bit sweeter than their regular offerings, it was a fantastic buy.
This is one of my very favorites. Something really special. I have had four in my collection. I am now down to three. They are getting harder and harder to find even in the secondary market. I have a bid on another to add to my collection.
This is one of my absolute favorite drams. It has a big peat and smoke flavor that expands thoroughly on the pallet but finishes so much smoother than others. This is the rich peaty dram I have been searching for. Finishes long and beautifully. Very drinkable. Out of this world good!
In my humble opinion this is better than all Ardbeg except Corryvreckan. Depending on which mood you are in. Full bodied, peat and sweet and spicy. Long aftertaste.
fantastic dram. very complex and good finish. not as good as oogie and 3 times as expensive. my advice, buy 2 oogie and 1 QC laphroig for same price. no brainer
