Uigeadail

In 2009, Jim Murrays Whisky Bible named Ardbeg Uigeadail World Whisky of the Year in praise of its utter silky brilliance and complexity on a level only a handful of distilleries in the world can even dream of reaching. Pronounced Oog-a-dal, its a special vatting that marries Ardbegs traditional deep, smoky notes with luscious, raisiny tones of old ex-Sherry casks.

Ardbeg Uigeadail was voted by the 120,000+ strong Ardbeg Committee as their favourite Ardbeg. Colour:Deepest Gold. Aroma:Rich and weighty with heady and smoky aromatics. At full strength, the initial aroma is a beguiling mix of warm Christmas cake, walnut oil and parma violets fused with fresh ocean spice, cedar and pine needles falling from the Christmas tree.

A smouldering coal fire and the scent of well-oiled leather brings warmth. The sweetness of treacle toffees and chocolate-coated raisins emerge through the smoke. With water, the deep smokiness increases in intensity, reminiscent of a fired Christmas pudding. Rich flowering currants and warm baked banana and walnut bread are served with simmering mocha espresso.

Taste:Full flavoured and rich with a deep mouth-coating texture, the taste is an intriguing balance between sweet, spicy and deep smoky flavours. The flavour is initially sweet. A burst of winter spices sets off a smoky-spicy explosion countered by a sumptuous mid-palate of honey glazed smoked food and chewy treacle.

Waves of deep smoky tones and rich aromas build up on the palate like a fine Montecristo cigar. Finish:Amazingly long and chewy with lingering raisiny, deep mocha tones and rich aromatic smoke into the perfectly integrated finish. Bottle Size: 750ml Alc: 54,2%