Ardbeg Grooves was released in celebration of Ardbeg Day 2018, and as ever, the Islay-based distillers have created a most intriguing expression. Part of the whisky that makes up Grooves was matured in red wine casks that were very well-charred, resulting in heavy grooves in the surface of the wood. A mellow though flavoursome dram.
To quote Ash Williams; "Groovy".
This bottle was part of a private collection - if you'd like more detailed photos just get in touch!
A thick, spiced aroma of iodine, seaweed and golden syrup leads among a herbal note of lavender. An earthy funk from damp bonfire wood, old oak and dried grass is complemented by lighter touches of butterscotch, stone fruits and a little marzipan icing.
Vanilla fudge, toffee popcorn and tarred orchard fruits rise through a big, salty opening. Savoury BBQ notes of cured Italian meats are percolated by paprika, green chilli and scorched herbs. Antique leather and damp oak form an interesting backdrop.
Seaside bonfire and smoked salts percolate through a mellow sweetness.
Ardbeg has certainly found its groove with this beauty...
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A fire and smoke taste with a oily calm smoothness on the way down. Easy B+/A- product for most, an A for me.
I've tried both dark cove (2016) and Kelpie (2017) and I really enjoyed Kelpie but this is even better and have more smokiness. You should add half a teaspoon of water though in 4-5cl whisky.
Absolutely the best Whisky from Ardbeg distillery since years. He is well matured and has a perfect creamy symbiosis with the alcohol. Sweetness and gentile spices are over flooding You tongue. Absolutely perfect for this price!
Managed to grab two bottles of the committee release of this directly from Ardbeg in March. It’s pretty good especially when left to open up for a month or two. I agree with the first review, not sure it’s worth the extra on the Uigea and Corryvreckan. I’ll probably keep the second bottle as it’s value outstrips it’s quality sadly now. But that’s the Ardbeg roundabout.
I found this similar to Kelpie but even sweeter with more smokiness. Lots of complex flavors including pepper, brine and fatty ham. $165 Canadian which isn't cheap but I will buy a couple more. For reference, my favorite Scotches are Laphroaig Cairdeas 2015, Laphroaig Lore, Ardbeg Kelpie, Balvenie 12 and Octomore 10.
