Recall the latest secret Islay release honoring Roland Puhl? It was a magnificent expression from Ardbeg that shall remain nameless...
But here's the thrilling news: more casks from the same undisclosed source are on their way. The initial one matured in a bourbon cask, but now we're anticipating a sherry cask edition. Actually, there's even more sherry casks to choose from. I had the pleasure of sampling them all side by side, taking our time to discern their nuances. Ultimately, I selected the one that resonated most with my palate. I've already shared samples with fellow connoisseurs, and we unanimously agree that it rivals its predecessor. While this release won't join the regular lineup, its label will pay homage to individuals from a bygone era.
This year marks the fifth anniversary of Dutch Whisky Connection, and we've got some special announcements lined up to celebrate this milestone. The first revelation revolves around our inception story. Two friends embarked on a journey, crisscrossing numerous festivals, sharing their passion by uncorking a plethora of old and rare bottles. I'm sure you'll recognize the dynamic duo.
I've previously raved about the exceptional liquid concealed within—the secret Islay whisky. The inscription beneath the portrait reads: "A Rare Dram But Extremely Good," providing just enough tantalizing detail.
Thank you for your unwavering dedication to whisky, Michiel.
Serge Valentin (92)
An extraordinary person on the label (and another in the background). Undoubtedly the first true collector and connoisseur of Ardbeg, leaving absolutely no doubt about the origin of this little gem: it's Mannochmore (hey, we can have a laugh, can't we?) Cheers and hugs, Bert! Colour: white wine. Nose: forget the sherry, for now this is an extremely pure, precise Ardbeg, with a wonderful softness built around oil paint, shells, graphite, and fireplace ashes. With water: fresh country bread at five o'clock in the morning (okay, six) and a platter of Islay oysters, plus soaked virgin wool, Islay mud and certainly a good dose of lanolin. A hint of a new pullover. Mouth (neat): taut as a bow, lemony and brimming with ashes and green pepper. Could that be olive oil in the background? With water: proof that Ardbeg can indeed show a softer side. Very ripe apple, salt, more oysters, our friends the winkles, old paint, grapefruit… Finish: long and both oily and taut at the same time, which is unusual, I admit. Comments: just avoid adding too much water, and in this case, for me it easily scores...
