Professional reviews
Serge Valentin (91)
Colour: gold.
Nose: needs time after the two rather monstrous 1972s, but the delicacy in it and the subtle notes of smoked teas win us over. High-end lapsang souchong, pipe tobacco, pu-erh, a little marmalade and the subtlest earthiness.
Mouth: a marvellous blend of lime tree tea, mint, rosemary, hawthorn, liquorice allsorts and ‘smoky bubblegum’ (for lack of better terms). All delicacy and elegance.
Finish: relatively short, but so elegant…
Comments: an old lady that would have had a black belt in karate. As co-taster Sukhinder says, it’s getting better and better as we’re getting older.
BOW (92)
Ardbeg Distillery, nestled on the rugged shores of Islay, has long been celebrated for its bold and peaty expressions. The Ardbeg 30 Years Old Very Old, bottled in 1997 as part of the Very Old series, stands as a rare testament to the distillery's ability to craft whiskies that transcend time. This vintage bottle is a glimpse into the past, offering enthusiasts a chance to savor the sophistication and complexity that only decades of maturation can impart.
Special Considerations:
Given its age, the Ardbeg 30 Years Old Very Old is a vintage bottle, and as with any aged spirit, there are unique considerations to bear in mind. The closure may have deteriorated over time, and opening the bottle requires care. The back label may show signs of wear, and the current filling level is lower than when originally released in 1997. It's essential to understand that this item is sold as described, and these characteristics contribute to its historical charm.
Visual Delight: Gold Elixir
The rich golden hue of the Ardbeg 30 Years Old Very Old sets the stage for the sensory journey that awaits. This color, acquired over three decades of maturation, hints at the depth and complexity within the bottle.
Nose: Delicate and Subtle
After encountering two monstrous 1972 releases, the delicacy of the Ardbeg 30 Years Old Very Old captivates the senses. Notes of high-end lapsang souchong, pipe tobacco, pu-erh tea, a touch of marmalade, and the subtlest earthiness create an olfactory symphony that showcases the depth of Islay's peaty terroir.
Palate: A Marvelous Blend
The journey continues on the palate with a marvellous blend of lime tree tea, mint, rosemary, hawthorn, and a touch of liquorice allsorts. The intriguing descriptor of 'smoky bubblegum' adds a playful element to the tasting experience. All delicacy and elegance, this expression defies expectations with its nuanced and refined flavor profile.
Finish: Short, Yet Elegant
The finish, while relatively short, is a testament to the elegance that defines the Ardbeg 30 Years Old Very Old. Each sip leaves a lasting impression, inviting contemplation and reflection on the decades of craftsmanship that went into creating this remarkable whisky.
Comments: A Black Belt in Karate
In the words of the co-taster Sukhinder, the Ardbeg 30 Years Old Very Old is akin to an old lady with a black belt in karate. Like a fine martial artist, it gets better and better with age, showcasing the mastery of Ardbeg in the art of whisky craftsmanship.
Conclusion:
The Ardbeg 30 Years Old Very Old, with its unique characteristics and decades-old charm, is more than a whisky—it's a living testament to the history and legacy of Ardbeg Distillery. As enthusiasts embark on a journey through time with each sip, they experience the delicate yet powerful evolution of Islay's peated spirit, leaving an indelible mark on the palate and the soul. This vintage gem from the Very Old series invites whisky lovers to savor the elegance that only time and expertise can bring to a truly exceptional dram.
