Review #31: Ardbeg Drum Committee

I was really hesitant to buy this whisky for a lot of reasons:

  1. As pointed out on a Reddit scotch thread, it’s expensive (each committee release is getting pricier and pricier). This is especially true in California, where retailers like K&L were selling it for around $140 instead of the $110 RRP (recommended retail price)
  2. It’s non-age statement for that price
  3. I haven’t been that impressed with rum cask finishes

I’m happy to say – I am utterly delighted with this whisky and am glad I bought it. I have already imbibed a fair amount of it.

Whisky bottle with glass of whisky in front and stones behind

Ardbeg Drum Committee Review
  • Score - 8.5/10
    8.5/10

Tasting Notes

Nose: Iodine but sweet banana cream pie. Coconut body lotion. Grilled seafood in sweet Thai sauce.

Palate: Salt. Banana salt water Taffy. Peat lingers throughout but the sweetness of grilled pineapples and stonefruits. Caramel.

Finish: Banana runts residue. Ash. Long finish. Does not have the youthful burn expected of a Non-Age Statement (NAS)

Overview

TLDR: “Thai roast fish.”

Overall: 8.5/10. Outstanding. We were hesitant to buy because it keeps getting pricier and pricier, but this bottle was worth it. We would definitely love to try a bottle of whatever rum they’re finishing it in!

Bought for: ~$140 at K&L

Overall
8.5/10
8.5/10

Additional Information

  • ABV: 52%
  • Cask: Finished in rum
  • Age: No age statement
  • Limited run release, made for Feis Islay festival in 2019.

About Ardbeg Distillery

  • Distillery is known for having the best food of any distillery in Islay
  • Generally a very peaty whisky. They have a number of their rarer releases in their tasting room.
  • They have a variety of tours available, see map for more details.

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