Ardbeg Renaissance 10 Year Old Review

Brand: Ardbeg
Age: 10 Years
ABV: 55.9%
Price: Approx. £450

When you hear the name Ardbeg, you're likely to think of peat, smoke, and a rich history of whisky-making on the Scottish Isle of Islay. Ardbeg Renaissance is a celebration of that tradition, marking the culmination of a series of releases leading up to their 10-year-old expression.

First Impressions

The Ardbeg Renaissance comes in the distillery's signature bottle, exuding a sense of mystery and tradition. The high ABV of 55.9% suggests a robust experience ahead. At first glance, the price tag of around £450 might raise eyebrows, but let's delve into the dram to see if the experience justifies the cost.

Flavour Journey

Upon nosing, the Renaissance greets you with a potent wave of Islay's coastal character — think seaweed and brine, mixed with the unmistakable Ardbeg peat smoke. But there's more than just smoke; hints of vanilla and a citrus zest round out the aromatic profile.

Taking a sip, the high ABV delivers a bold punch. It's a full-bodied whisky where peat remains the star, but it's not a one-dimensional peat bomb. Layers unfold with smoked fruits, a touch of oak, and a sweetness reminiscent of honey and lemon. Adding a few drops of water can open it up even further, softening the intensity and revealing subtler nuances like spices and a gentle nuttiness.

Value for Money

Is Ardbeg Renaissance worth the £450 price tag? For the casual drinker, this might be steep. However, for the whisky aficionado who appreciates the craftsmanship and story behind a bottle, it can be considered a worthwhile investment. It's a limited edition, after all, so part of what you're paying for is exclusivity.

Comparable Whiskies

If you're looking for alternatives, you might consider other Ardbeg expressions like the Uigeadail or Corryvreckan, which offer peaty complexity at a lower price point. Outside of Ardbeg, whiskies like Lagavulin 16 Year Old or Laphroaig 10 Cask Strength might scratch a similar itch for peat lovers.

The Brand

Ardbeg has a cult following, and for a good reason. Their whiskies consistently deliver quality and complexity. The Renaissance is a nod to Ardbeg's rebirth and return to form, following a tumultuous period in the 1980s and 1990s.

Summary

The Ardbeg Renaissance is a whisky that commands attention. With its high ABV and intense flavors, it's not for the faint of heart. It's a celebration of Islay peat, offering complexity and depth that will reward those who appreciate such characteristics.

Rating: 4/5

The Ardbeg Renaissance 10 Year Old is a peat-lover's treasure, and while the price is on the higher end, it's a commendable dram with a story to tell. It earns a solid 4 out of 5, with points for flavor depth and character, but a slight deduction for a price that might limit its accessibility.