Ardbeg Airigh Nam Beist 16 Year Old 1990 (Bottled 2006) Review

Brand: Ardbeg
Age: 16 Years
Year Distilled: 1990
Year Bottled: 2006
ABV: 46%
Price: Approx. £575

First Impressions

Upon setting eyes on the Ardbeg Airigh Nam Beist, affectionately known as "the Beast" by enthusiasts, one can't help but be intrigued by its mystique. The presentation is classic Ardbeg - unassuming yet with an air of confidence that speaks to the distillery's renowned reputation.

Flavor Notes

Taking the first nosing, you're greeted by a complex symphony of peat that Ardbeg is famous for, but with an elegance that comes from its 16 years of maturation. There's a rich tapestry of smoke, but it's not just a one-note peat bomb; there's a depth here, with hints of vanilla, honey, and a whisper of sea spray - a nod to its Islay heritage.

On the palate, the Beast reveals its layers. The peat is omnipresent but not overwhelming, allowing space for the dance of other flavors. There's a fruitiness here, think of stewed apples and pears, drizzled with a caramel that's been kissed by the smoke of a bonfire. The mouthfeel is oily, coating the tongue and paving the way for a finish that is long, warming, and with a delightful spiciness that lingers.

Value for Money

At around £575, the Airigh Nam Beist sits in a higher price bracket, and while that may give pause, it's important to consider the experience it offers. This is a discontinued expression, making it a collector's item and a slice of whisky history. For the connoisseur, the price is a testament to its rarity and the quality of the dram. For the casual drinker, it's a splurge that might be hard to justify unless you're looking for a truly special experience.

Comparable Whiskies

If you're a fan of the complexity and peat of Ardbeg, you might find solace in whiskies like the Laphroaig 18 Year Old or even the Lagavulin 16 Year Old, both of which offer that Islay character, albeit with their own distinctive personalities.

Brand and Whisky Trivia

Ardbeg is a distillery that often conjures images of rugged Scottish coastlines and peat bogs. Established in 1815, it has a storied history and a loyal following. The Airigh Nam Beist, which translates to "shelter of the beast," is a nod to the wild nature of its home on Islay and the untamed spirit of the whisky itself.

Summary

The Ardbeg Airigh Nam Beist is a whisky that commands attention. It's a peaty pleasure ride with enough complexity to keep the experienced whisky drinker pondering each sip. It's a snapshot in time, a piece of Ardbeg's history that has been captured in the bottle.

Rating: 4.5/5
Summary: The Ardbeg Airigh Nam Beist is a beast of a dram with a price tag to match. It's an investment in flavor and history, not for the faint of heart but a treasure for the enthusiast. Its balance of smoke, fruit, and spice is executed with a finesse that is hard to find. It's not quite perfection, but it's as close as it gets for lovers of peated Islay whisky.