[Jojo]

Robert - our contact at Ardbeg told us that this sounds like one of their limited editions in the early days after the Distillery reopened in 1997. It was distributed by Brown Forman in the US at the time. McTears sold two in their whisky auction on 3rd Feb for GBP120 and GBP100.

I have a photo of the carton, but having a problem converting it into the right format, so will work on it and post later. In the meantime, here is more information....

ARDBEG 1978 VINTAGE


Ardbeg Single Islay Malt

Revered by connoisseurs as a truly extraordinary whisky, Ardbeg Single Islay Malt stands alone as the most delicate and complex of all the Islay malts. Its strength is that it does not flaunt the peat; rather it gives way to the malt, the natural sweetness of which subtly intrudes and produces the perfect balance.

And balance is the key. All Islay malts are special, but only Ardbeg has achieved such effortless harmony which sets it apart from the rest.

Vintages

A Vintage is declared when the Ardbeg Distillery Manager has discovered casks from a particular year which, during maturation, have developed extra special characteristics.


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TASTING NOTES

Nose: There is an unmistakeable bourbon oakiness to this dram and in combination with the peat, offers something that flies off the scale – extraordinary. Although the malt can be detected, one has to search amongst the surging of peat and bourbon.

Taste: The brilliance of this whisky is its ability to show genuine subtlety and poise, yet leave no one in any doubt of its origin and intention. As well as very rich, almost grassy, malt and some well groomed oak, there are delicious hints of roast coffee and hickory.

Finish: This is a classic among classic Ardbegs – the balance of the nose and the palate is exactly how Ardbeg should be and the finish is magnificent. A real depth of character. Keep on the palate for as long as possible to magnify the sweetness and complexity.


Ardbeg 1978 Vintage – “ It has a glorious richness and complexity”