1990 Ardbeg Airigh Nam Beist Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.

This offering from Ardbeg takes its name from a place high above the distillery – “Airigh Nam Beist” (pronounced 'arry-nam-bayst') which in Gaelic means 'shelter of the beast'. Airigh Nam Beist becomes the third regular house expression of Ardbeg on the market, alongside the 10 Year Old and the cask strength Uigeadail, which carries no age statement and was introduced in 2003. This newcomer delivers a softer, sweeter and creamier nose than the 10 Year Old version, with less overt peatiness.
In the creation of this whisky, heavily peated malt is mashed with water from Loch Uigeadail to produce a wort, which is then twice distilled. After maturing on site for sixteen years, specially selected ex-Bourbon barrels were vatted together and bottled without chill-filtration. For those who have missed the discontinued 17 Year Old, this 1990 vintage bottling is essentially a 16 year old but produced in very small quantities. Be quick to get what may be one of the most under priced vintage Ardbeg’s ever. Limited Stocks.

'There is only one distillery on earth that could make something so gigantic, yet so delicate. And mind-blowingly complex. Smokey sophistication'.
95 points. - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2009

Tasting note: Pale watery colour with golden tinge, thanks to the exclusive use of ex Bourbon Oak and bottling without the use of Caramel colouring (E150). An extraordinarily complex nose which seems to change minute by minute, almost impossible to accurately and comprehensively describe. The extra six years in oak has tamed the once extreme peat, it's now a soft blanket hovering above sweet, inviting aromas of orange oil and green toffee apple, with hints of saltiness emerging. The palate is full, generous and creamy. Initially dominated by smoke and salt which eventually gives way to the sweet vanilla notes of bourbon oak. Rich cocoa drives the long, defined classy finish, which leaves the mouth awaiting the next installment with eager anticipation. A rich, flavoursome whisky of the highest quality.

Other reviews: Aroma is delicate and grainy sweet; additional time brings out more peat fire, cigar tobacco, seaweed and ocean breeze. Palate entry is sap-like in its gentle sweetness; by midpalate, my palate is enchanted as lush, but pointed tastes of sea salt, gentle pipe smoke, peat and pineapple converge. Finishes smoky and salty. Wonderful. 46% Alc./Vol.  96-100 points - www.wineenthusiast.com

NB: We have 1 bottle only, supplied without the gift box.