Ardbeg 7 Year Old 2000 Daily Dram & The Whisky Fair

While Ardbeg, after the takeover by Glenmorangie PLC in 1997, released a special series to celebrate the second lease on life (Very Young, Still Young, Almost There and Renaissance), the independent bottler Daily Dram released a 7 Year Old Ardbeg in 2007, in collaboration with The Whisky Fair. It was this Still Very Young Islay Single Malt on a cask strength of no less than 62,6%. It came from a refill sherry butt.

The nose is sweet and sour with the usual coastal elements and some (subdued) peat, citrus à la mandarin, but also banana, almonds and sultanas. Then there are some green olives and typical sea air. Rather aloof. Adding water provokes some salty elements like smoked fish, but also brings some vanilla to the surface.

On the palate, the attack is feisty with a lot of peat and white pepper. Smoked mackerel is mixed with marzipan and lime. But it is too hot. This needs water and not just a few drops. That makes it more palatable and wonderfully sweet. Not fruity, but loads of vanilla and nuts.

The long finish is very smoky, on nuts and liquorice.

A powerful lad that surprises, especially after that soft nose. But it is way too hot and needs quite a bit of water. No longer available, as far as I know.

Find where to buy Ardbeg whisky