Ardbeg Dark Cove Committee Release 110 proof Single Malt Scotch Whisky 750ml Bottle

Ardbeg is renowned as being among the peatiest of all the Islay malts, as measured in PPM phenol—the “smoky standard” of Islay malts. But there is a lot going on beneath the ashy, campfire-in-a-glass surface. Dark Cove (called “the darkest Ardbeg ever” by the brand) is matured in a combination of ex-bourbon barrels and dark-sherry casks, and the sherry influence is felt up front, with sweet raisin and dark berry notes on the tip of the tongue. The classic Ardbeg smoke-and-peat flavors come through loud and clear on mid-palate, but the sweet, fruity undertones remain. With a whisky this big-flavored, and bottled at 110 proof, it would not be unreasonable to expect a few hot embers on the finish—but it’s actually long, clean, and stunningly smooth.