Ardbeg Blaaack (Committee Release), 50.7%

Ardbeg's 2020 limited-edition cask-strength Committee Release was matured mainlyin pinot noir red wine casks from New Zealand, a country notable for its sheep, likeIslay. Woodsmoke on the nose, with coal fires, cedar, and canned fruit cocktail in amild antiseptic solution. Supple and sweet on the palate, with orchard fruits and anemerging wave of peppery prickly peat smoke. Long in the sooty finish. Lively, withchile paste.