I have no former experience with this "Reserve" series from G&M. It looks like a copy of the Cask-series, but maybe there's some distinguishing differences I'm not aware of. Anyhow, Ardmore is one of my favourite malts, frankly because it carries peat well and rarely loose its barley origin flavour. This one comes from a first fill bourbon barrel. The color is amber orange. It smells peaty, coffee beans, oregano, vanilla, ashes, garlic, raw onions, dried white wine, citron tea, black pepper. This is just what I'd expect from a great Ardmore, time to taste! The taste is vanilla, honey, ginger, ashes, pear juice, smoked caviar, menthol, grainy, white wine, aged white wine vinegar. I mean, this sure isn't the most complex whisky you'll find, but it's a clear winner if you compare the alcohol level with the clean flavours. The story of a good cask. The finish is peaty and peppery with longlasting notes of dry licorice.
Simply a great Ardmore, the alternative to coastal peat, for sure: 8
Next tasting: Knockdhu Distillery