Ardbeg Traigh Bhan 2001 19yo Batch 3 2021

Description

Released in late 2021, Traigh Bahn is a now a regular release of a well-aged Ardbeg.  Matured in both Oloroso sherry casks (possibly read that as sherried American oak casks) and American oak.

Given it’s age, please don’t expect a big, expressive, smoky, typical Ardbeg whisky. This is all about supple oak, rich maltiness and a deep but balanced smokiness. A whisky that quite rightly shows its age.

From the WhiskyWash, “A hot cayenne or eucalyptus spiciness interrupts the initial notes of toffee, aniseed, and citrus zest. Adding a touch of water creates a waxy mouthfeel that tames the heat enough to taste hints of black walnut, flinty minerals, and sappy tannins.

Official notes read, “A rush of rich, sappy textures is followed moments later by classic sweet smokiness. Tarry rope and treacle toffee plunge the palate into a second wave of soot and aniseed twists. Smoke bobs on the horizon, while smoked brown sugar, walnuts and spices gently dissolve away.  A long, unhurried finish carries bitter almonds and clove in its wake, before slowly drifting away”.