Whisky Review/Tasting: Ardbeg Dun Bheagan 15J-2001/2016

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Ardbeg, an Islay distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Distilled in 2001, bottled in 2016, aged 15 years. Matured in ex-bourbon barrels.
Age Statement: 15 years.
Color and Clarity: Not too light, indicating refill casks were not overly used.
Bottle Design: Specific design details not mentioned, but it's an independent bottling by Ian MacLeod under the Dun Bheagan series.

Balance of Flavors: Described as well-balanced, with a smooth start, developing into a crescendo of flavors, and settling into a pleasant aftertaste without bitterness.
Unique Characteristics: The smokiness intensifies rather than diminishes after the first sip, with a notable smoked salmon aroma, described as luxurious and oily.
Comparison: More mature and complex than the standard Ardbeg 10-year-old. Unlike the Uigeadail, it does not contain sherry cask whisky, which gives a different fruitiness.

Distillery History: Ardbeg had to fulfill old contracts from its previous owners, Allied Domecq, leading to the existence of these independent bottlings.
Production Insights: This particular bottle comes from a batch of three casks, with a total outturn of 682 bottles, making it a rare find.

Isle of Skye Connection: The Dun Bheagan series is named after Dunvegan Castle, the ancestral home of the Clan MacLeod on the Isle of Skye, linking the whisky to Scottish heritage and the significance of clan territories.

Horst Luening's Opinion: He appreciates the whisky's balance, noting its pleasant smokiness, lack of bitterness, and the unique smoked salmon note. He emphasizes its rarity and value among independent bottlings of Ardbeg.
Quote: "The older a whisky becomes, the more, well, the extreme smokiness converts into complexity."

A rare independent bottling of Ardbeg by Ian MacLeod, aged 15 years in ex-bourbon barrels.
Exhibits a complex flavor profile with a notable smoked salmon aroma and a well-balanced taste.
Named after Dunvegan Castle on the Isle of Skye, highlighting its Scottish heritage.
Described as more mature and complex than Ardbeg's standard 10-year-old offering.
Highly valued and rare, making it a sought-after bottle for collectors and enthusiasts.

For the Peat Lover: This whisky's evolving smokiness and complexity make it a must-try.
For the Whisky Collector: Its rarity and unique story add value to any collection.
For the Experienced Palate: Those who appreciate the subtleties of aged whisky will find its balance and unique flavors rewarding.
For the Curious Novice: While it might be an expensive introduction, it offers a deep dive into the world of peated whisky with a unique flavor profile.