Whisky Review/Tasting: Ardmore Port Wood Finish 12 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Ardmore, Scottish Highlands
Type: Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Distillation and Maturation Process: Double cask matured; initially in American oak ex-bourbon barrels, followed by a finish in European port casks. Non-chill filtered.
Age Statement: 12 years
Color: Described as burnt orange.
Bottle Design: Not specifically described, but the presence of a cork is noted, which is made from glued-together small pieces, reducing the risk of TCA (cork taint).

Balance of Flavors: Light and sweet, with a balance of fruity and peated notes. Described as perfectly balanced.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky is 100% peated, though the exact ppm is not specified. The flavor profile includes burnt orange oil, cinnamon, strawberries, honey, spiced wood, and subtle smoky charcoal. The peatiness is less pronounced than in younger Ardmore expressions, offering a more nuanced smokiness.
Comparison: The reviewer suggests this whisky is competitive with others costing significantly more, highlighting its value and quality.

Anecdotes: The reviewer shares a personal story about an aunt who demonstrated the aroma of burnt orange oil, which is reminiscent of the whisky's flavor profile.
Distillery Story: Ardmore has been traditionally handcrafted in the Scottish Highlands since 1898, with the distillery watched over by a family of rare eagles, adding a unique aspect to its heritage.

Ardmore's location in the Scottish Highlands and its traditional handcrafting process underscore its deep roots in Scottish whisky culture. The presence of rare eagles watching over the distillery adds a distinctive natural element to its identity.

Opinions: The reviewer, Horst Luening, praises the Ardmore Port Wood Finish 12 years as the best whisky reviewed in the month and highlights its ability to compete with whiskies costing upwards of 200.
Quotes: "A really well balanced, full, complex, mature, rewarding single malt whisky."

Ardmore Port Wood Finish 12 years is a Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, aged for 12 years, and finished in European port casks.
It features a balance of light, sweet, fruity, and peated notes, with a unique burnt orange oil aroma.
The whisky is celebrated for its complexity, maturity, and balance, making it competitive with higher-priced whiskies.
The distillery's heritage and the natural setting, including the protection by rare eagles, add to the whisky's storytelling appeal.
Horst Luening highly recommends this whisky, considering it a standout for its quality and value.

For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with a deep appreciation for complex, mature single malts will find the Ardmore Port Wood Finish 12 years particularly rewarding.
For Adventurous Drinkers: Individuals looking to explore peated whiskies with a unique twist, such as the addition of fruity port cask finishes, will enjoy this expression.
For Value Seekers: Given its competitive quality at its price point, this whisky is an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality experiences without the premium cost.