Ardbeg Perpetuum Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Islay, Scotland
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Distillation & Maturation: The specific distillation and maturation processes are not detailed, but it is suggested that the whisky includes a mix of very old Ardbeg expressions and possibly younger ones, with a hint that refill ex-bourbon casks and sherry casks are used.
Age Statement: No specific age statement is provided, but there's an implication that the whisky includes a range of ages, with "very old" being somewhat more than 12 years.
Color & Clarity: Light golden color, which suggests a younger whisky or the use of refill casks.
Bottle Design: The bottle and packaging celebrate Ardbeg's 200th anniversary, with unique design elements like wave-form writing and the mathematical sign for infinity, deviating from the traditional Ardbeg green.

Balance of Flavors: A complex balance of classic Ardbeg peat smoke with creamy and sweet vanilla, dark chocolate, and nutty oak. The flavor evolves from smoky to sweet, with a notable absence of extreme medicinal smoke.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky is described as having a never-ending rich combination of Ardbegian notes and creamy flavors, with a notable smoked ham note and a shift from milk chocolate to darker chocolate in the aftertaste.
Comparison: It's suggested that about 80% of the whisky's profile is similar to Ardbeg 10, with a small amount of sherry cask influence, less than in Ardbeg Uigeadail.

Anecdotes: The packaging includes a narrative emphasizing the timeless nature of Ardbeg and its commitment to traditional whisky-making, rejecting the notion of automation. The mention of Shorty, the distillery dog, adds a personal touch to the distillery's story.
Trivia: The release commemorates the 200th anniversary of Ardbeg, highlighting the distillery's long history and tradition.

The whisky celebrates 200 years of Ardbeg's history, emphasizing its enduring legacy and the unchanged nature of its production in Islay, Scotland. The narrative reinforces the cultural importance of maintaining traditional whisky-making methods.

Opinions: The reviewer, Horst Luening, appreciates the complexity and balance of the whisky, though he notes the absence of certain flavors described on the packaging. He also discusses the collectibility and potential investment value of the limited edition.
Quotes: "Time change, Ardbeg remains. The past, present, and future in a glass."

Ardbeg Perpetuum is a limited edition single malt Scotch whisky celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Ardbeg distillery.
It features a complex flavor profile with a balance of peat smoke, creamy sweetness, and nutty oak, with unique notes of smoked ham and dark chocolate.
The whisky's packaging and narrative emphasize the distillery's commitment to tradition and the timeless nature of its spirit.
It is suggested that the whisky includes a mix of ages and cask types, with a significant portion resembling Ardbeg 10.
The release is highly collectible, with potential value appreciation over time.

Collectors and Investors: Given its limited availability and commemorative nature, collectors and those interested in whisky as an investment might be particularly drawn to Ardbeg Perpetuum.
Ardbeg Enthusiasts: Fans of Ardbeg's classic flavor profile who appreciate the distillery's history and craftsmanship will likely enjoy this release.
Whisky Connoisseurs: Those with a palate for complex, smoky, and nuanced whiskies might find the Perpetuum's balance of traditional and unique flavors appealing.
Beginners: May find it challenging due to its complexity and smokiness but could appreciate it as a special occasion whisky to expand their palate.