Time for me to start writing up things I tasted at Whiskeyfest.

First up, let’s talk about Ardbeg.  It’s no secret that I am very fond of Ardbeg – I have written about Ardbeg Supernova, and touted deals on Ardbeg 10.  I have even stated that Ardbeg is one of the two top contenders for ranking as my favorite distillery.

So what’s new at Ardbeg?  In the past few months, there has been a fair amount of attention given to a new release from Ardbeg called Alligator.  Why is it called Alligator?  Because when the distillery charred the casks, they let the burn continue until the inside surface of the barrel began to crack up, forming a pattern similar to alligator scales.  As an engineer, I sometimes see this on fire damaged wood joists too.  In the distillery trade, this is referred to as “alligator char.”

First thing you smell on the nose of Alligator is campfire, and it carries through the palate and finish.  It’s got all the usual Ardbeg peat, but the campfire smoke adds a whole new level of sophistication to the whiskey.  Given the economy, I was prepared to pass on acquiring bottles of this release, but having tasted it, I am reconsidering that decision, and trying to figrue out where I can lay my hands on a few bottles.  If you like Islay scotches, this one is a winner.