Ardbeg Cadenhead's Authentic Collection Single Malt Scotch Whisky 17 Year Old · 1994 Vintage

Colour

Deep golden amber with coppery highlights.

Nose

Peat smoke dominates the aroma, sharpened by medicinal iodine and sea-salt. Beneath, sherry-darkened fruit, cocoa and a touch of espresso intertwine with toasted oak and vanilla, all lifted on a brisk, briny Islay breeze.

Palate

Powerful Islay peat with smoky, medicinal bite, tempered by rich sherry-cask fruit. On the palate, thick charcoal smoke and sea-salt tang weave through dark figs and raisins, with cocoa nibs and toasted nuts. Spices rise as the 56.8% vigor reveals itself—clove, black pepper, a hint of cinnamon. Long, smoky finish, mineral and sweetly oaken, with lingering warmth.

Finish

Long, smoky finish with coastal brine and iodine, carried on a tidal wave of peat. Dark chocolate and dried fruit emerge as a gentle sherry-influenced sweetness lingers, tapering to warming oak, peppery spice, and a resinous, medicinal warmth that fades slowly with mineral brightness.