The Blaaack is the annual Ardbeg Day release from the Islay distillery of Ardbeg.
The 2020 edition celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Ardbeg Committee. Ardbeg Blaaack is so named to honour the distillery's 'black sheep of the family' image amongst Islay distilleries and has been matured in ex-Pinot Noir red wine casks.
These were sourced from New Zealand. This cask strength limited edition is released at 50.7% ABV.
Nose: A deep cherry blossom color, with notes of baked fruit pudding, cedar wood, cigar box, oak tannins, and truffles. Some also note a hint of sweet, bacony smoke.
Palate: A soft and velvety start with juicy fruitiness, such as jammy berries and stone fruit marmalades. Some also note a kick of stony minerality, sweet orange, and sour lemon
Finish: A long finish with persistent sootiness, tingly pepper, and some sticky wood tannins