Ardnahoe Inaugural Release

Ardnahoe Inaugural Release 50% 70cl

The long awaited first whisky from Islay distillery Ardnahoe has arrived! This bold, characterful expression has been aged for five years in both ex-oloroso sherry and ex-bourbon casks. Peated to 40ppm, it’s got that classic Islay bonfire smoke, but backed by an abundance of orchard fruit notes with soft, sweet spices. Ardnahoe has the stated aim of making a new Islay classic, and with its long lyne arms and worm tub condensers (the only ones on the island), it’s made a thrilling start.

Tasting notes:

Nose: It opens with a basket of green apples and red hedgerow berries, with a rich biscuit-like maltiness, too. There’s a subtle smoke drifting through the grassiness, before lemon meringue pie, raisin and Danish pastry notes arrive.

Palate: Quite creamy with a mouth-coating texture. There’s an immediate waft of definite bonfire smoke ahead of liquorice, marzipan and shortbread. Scones with jam and cream, deep spices and buttery croissants build in a sweetness against a honeyed meat backdrop.

Finish: Medium to long with that lingering robust smoke.

Read more about this brand new Islay whisky over on The Milroy’s Measure.