Uigeadail, named after Gaelic words for "a dark, mysterious place," is a whisky that encapsulates the essence of its peat-rich water source, Loch Uigeadail. It's a captivating blend of sweetness, spice, and smokiness, thanks to aging in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks. The unique vatting technique of Ardbeg Uigeadail melds smoky notes from ex-bourbon American oak with the sweet richness of ex-sherry Oloroso casks, creating a whisky of profound depth and character. This non-chill filtered whisky, with no age statement, boasts a 54.2% ABV and a deep gold color, offering an invitation to explore its complex flavors.
Tasting Note by Ardbeg:
Nose: Heady, intense and powerful. Swirl the glass and dip your nose into the torrents of tarry ropes, creosote and linseed oil rising from deep within the vortex. A collision of waxy dark chocolate, warm blackcurrants and muscovado sugar pulls you under its spell with a burst of plump cherries and earthy pine needles leaping from its depths. From salty seasoning comes a briny character with tangy crisp seaweed and smoky bacon swirling on the surface with hints of sweet vanilla, spicy cloves and blueberries. Surrender to its dangerous depths with the heady force of menthol, treacle and chilli sauce.
Palate: Plunge into the whirlpool and torrents of taste well up on the palate; deep, peppery and chewy, bombarding the tongue. The first plunge brings forth chewy peppered steak soaked in pepper sauce with the tang of crispy seaweed. As you descend deeper, encounter a mouthful of black tarry espresso coffee that coats the palate with rich melted dark fruits (blackcurrants, blueberries and cherries) and bitter almonds. As the taste soaks in deeper, star anise and hickory dry out the palate before a surprise of chalky effervescent violets fizz to the surface.
Finish: Long, deep and remaining powerful into the finish with black tarry coffee, chocolate coated cherries and hot pepper sauce, the lingering memories of your mysterious and daring journey into Corryvreckan.