Whisky Review/Tasting: Ardbeg Supernova 2014

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Scotland
Type: Single Malt Whisky
Distillation and Maturation Process: Part of the whisky matured in space, details on specific distillation and maturation processes on Earth are not provided.
Age Statement: No age statement, described as quite new and an experiment.
Color: Light gold brown, though later described as straw and very light, indicating a young whisky.
Clarity: Not specifically mentioned.
Bottle Design: The design specifics are not discussed, but it is noted that the release is highly limited, available only to committee members, and initially offered in a miniature size due to its scarcity.

Balance of Flavors: The whisky is described as having an intense, full flavor profile, with a notable balance between smokiness, sweetness, and spiciness.
Unique Characteristics: Noted for its high ppm (parts per million) peat level, making it one of the most peaty whiskies at the time of its first release in 2009. The 2014 release, while not the highest in ppm anymore, still offers a distinctive, aromatic heavy smokiness.
Comparison: The smokiness is described as different and more aromatic compared to other whiskies tasted by the reviewer, such as Ugudan or Kori Reckon. It's noted that the smokiness is not linear and changes with dilution.

Space Maturation Experiment: A small sample of Ardbeg whisky was sent to the International Space Station to mature for three years, with the aim of comparing its maturation to an identical sample kept on Earth.
Supernova and Galileo Stories: The naming of the whisky combines the explosive end of a star's life (Supernova) with the scientific exploration symbolized by Galileo, though the reviewer suggests that the marketing might have mixed two different narratives.

Peatiness Tradition: Ardbeg's tradition of producing highly peaty whiskies is highlighted, with the Supernova series pushing the boundaries of peat levels in whisky.
Innovation and Experimentation: The story of sending whisky to space for maturation reflects a blend of tradition with cutting-edge experimentation, showcasing the distillery's willingness to explore new frontiers in whisky production.

"It's more marketing than tasting notes, I'm afraid." - Reflecting skepticism about the marketing-driven description of the whisky's flavor profile.
"This whisky might change taste after some resting period." - Acknowledging the potential for flavor development over time.
"This whiskey will be expensive, very expensive." - Predicting the high cost and collectibility of the whisky due to its limited availability and unique production story.

Ardbeg Supernova 2014 is a highly peaty, single malt whisky from Scotland, notable for its part in a space maturation experiment.
The whisky has a light gold brown color, indicative of its youth, and a complex flavor profile with a distinctive, aromatic heavy smokiness.
Unique storytelling elements include the space maturation experiment and the combination of supernova and Galileo narratives in its marketing.
The whisky is expected to be highly collectible and expensive, appealing more to collectors than casual drinkers due to its price and limited availability.

Whisky Collectors: Due to its limited release and unique space maturation story, collectors should find this bottle a must-have.
Peat Lovers: Those who enjoy heavily peated whiskies will appreciate the intense, aromatic smokiness of the Supernova 2014.
Experimental Whisky Enthusiasts: Individuals interested in unique maturation processes and innovative whisky production methods will find the space maturation story fascinating.
Casual Drinkers: Might find the whisky intriguing but could be deterred by the high cost and intense flavor profile.