Whisky Review/Tasting: Ardbeg Supernova 2015

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Ardbeg Distillery, Isle of Islay, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: The whisky is noted for its experiment with extremely high peat levels, reaching 100 ppm (parts per million) of peat smoke, which is significantly higher than typical for the distillery. The specific age statement is not provided, but the whisky is described as having spent a considerable amount of time in casks, as indicated by its darker color compared to the Ardbeg 10 years old.
ABV: Bottled at 54.3% alcohol by volume.
Color & Bottle Design: The whisky is uncolored, presenting a darker hue than some of its counterparts from Ardbeg. The bottle design specifics are not detailed, but it is mentioned that the sample is 100 milliliters and not for resale.

Balance of Flavors: The Ardbeg Supernova 2015 is characterized by an intense peat smoke flavor, with a peat content of 100 ppm. Despite its high peat level, the whisky is described as having a friendly and pleasant smoke profile, with aromatic herbs and smoked fruit notes.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky lacks the spiciness typically associated with oak maturation, suggesting a unique balance between the intense peat smoke and the cask influence. The addition of water is noted to reduce the smokiness slightly, revealing a hint of salt and the typical Ardbeg sweetness.
Comparison: Compared to another unnamed extremely smoky whisky, the Ardbeg Supernova 2015 is described as more pleasant and aromatic.

Space Experiment: An intriguing aspect of the Ardbeg Supernova 2015 is its connection to an experiment conducted on the International Space Station (ISS), where samples of Ardbeg were sent to study the effects of microgravity on maturation. This experiment was part of a marketing effort by Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy, Ardbeg's parent company.
Personal Anecdote: Horst Luening, the host, shares a personal story of traveling with an electric car from the North Cape to Tarifa in Spain, which delayed his tasting of the whisky.

Islay Influence: The whisky's production on the Isle of Islay, a region known for its peated whiskies, and the use of water from Lough Ullvedal for distillation, highlight its deep connection to its geographical origin.
Space Experiment: The space maturation experiment adds a unique chapter to the whisky's story, blending traditional whisky-making with modern scientific exploration.

"This one is friendly, aromatic herbs, smoked fruit. It's pleasant to my nose compared to the other one."
"So this one should be the oldest they have so there has time passed so there should be a lot of influence from the cask walls in this whiskey."
"I'm no member of the art bag committee and I do not buy those bottles offered there. They are quite expensive."

Ardbeg Supernova 2015 is a highly peated single malt Scotch whisky from the Isle of Islay, with a peat content of 100 ppm.
It is part of an experiment involving maturation in microgravity, conducted on the ISS.
The whisky is described as having a friendly and pleasant smoke profile, despite its high peat level.
The space maturation experiment and the personal anecdote of the host add unique storytelling elements to the whisky's profile.
The whisky is noted for its darker color, indicating a longer maturation period, and is bottled at 54.3% ABV.
Expert opinion suggests that while the whisky is unique and interesting, its high peat level and cost may not appeal to all whisky enthusiasts.

Peat Lovers: Individuals who enjoy heavily peated whiskies will likely appreciate the intense peat smoke character of the Ardbeg Supernova 2015.
Whisky Collectors: Collectors interested in unique and limited-edition whiskies, especially those with a story like the space maturation experiment, may find this whisky particularly appealing.
Science and Whisky Enthusiasts: Those intrigued by the intersection of science and whisky-making might be drawn to the Ardbeg Supernova 2015 due to its connection to the ISS experiment.
Casual Drinkers: Given its high peat content and cost, casual whisky drinkers or those new to peated whiskies might find this whisky less accessible.