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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This is a very decent offering from Ardbeg. It's pretty mellow in comparison to most others in their range. The classic Ardbeg flavour is there, with the wine cask influence being fairly subtle. I have the committee release unopened that I am looking forward to trying, to see if the higher a.b.v. has much effect. My only problem with this bottling is the price, as I personally prefer the Uigeadail and Corryvreckan at £30-£40 less. Definitely worth a try though.
Once again the marketers caught me. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a good dram but it does not deserve all this noise. So, buy 2 An Oa or 1 Corryvreckan for the same amount of money and you will not regret it.
