Ardbeg Corryvreckan Single Malt Whisky 750ml

Details

• WHY:Whereas old school Scotch drinkers cut their teeth on Johnnie Black and Lagavulin 16, around 2007 a younger generationbegan gravitatingto Ardbeg instead with its big, brash flavors of smoke, salt, iodine, peat, and citrus. Named after a whirlpool off the coast of Islay, the Corryvreckan is a more savory, meaty expression of Ardbeg that brings a storm of salt, peat, smoke, bacon, and chocolate in a veritable whirlpool of flavor on the palate.

• HOW:Ardbeg’s lighter body and profound salinity are what separate it from its neighbors on Islay, and are the result of a purifier that hangs under the lyne arm on its stills. Helping to separate out the lighter alcohol molecules from the heavier ones. The result is a refined and delicate texture, but still with plenty of concentration. The Corryvreckan uses whiskies aged in both Bourbon and Sherry casks, bottled at a higher proof and without chill filtration.

• WHAT:Ardbeg was purchased in 1997 by the Glenmorangie Company and LVMH, who subsequently revamped the distillery and released a number of high proof expressions that showcased a more flavorful and explosive style of Islay whisky. Under the stewardship of Dr. Bill Lumsden, the distillery became the darling of both critics and consumers, capturing multiple “Best Whisky in the World” awards and topping the annual best-of lists year after year. The Corryvreckan in particular was named best whisky of 2009 by the Whisky Advocate.