Ardbeg 1990 Airigh Nam Beist (Bottled 2007)

Volume: 700ml / ABV:46%

Ardbeg 1990 Airigh Nam Beist is a single malt Scotch whisky from the Islay region of Scotland. Distilled in 1990, it was bottled between 2006 and 2008, with the 2007 bottling being one of the releases. This whisky is known for its unique character, attributed to its maturation in first- and second-fill bourbon casks and its relatively lower bottling strength of 46% ABV. The name "Airigh Nam Beist" translates to "shelter of the beast" in Gaelic, referring to a small freshwater loch near the distillery. This expression is celebrated for its refined and balanced profile, distinguishing it from other Ardbeg releases.

Tasting Note

Color

Full gold with tinges of copper.

Nose

The aroma is sweet, creamy, and coastal. It features sweetened vanilla cream, sweet and sour notes, apricot, lemon, and a big dose of mint and camphor. The peat is present but delicate, evolving as the bottle descends.

Palate

On the palate, it is soft and almost a little watery. The flavours include oily peat with graphite, pepper, nettle leaf, coriander, lemon zest, and light camphor fruit, bordering on exoticism. There is also a bit of creaminess supported by light tastes of Korean barley tea, vanilla, and honey.

Finish

The finish is long, featuring cold smoke, ashes, pepper, and camphorated exotic fruit.

Ardbeg Airigh Nam Beist is noted for its balance and complexity, offering a softer and more inviting experience compared to other Ardbeg expressions. It is a legendary bottling that has become increasingly rare and valuable over the years.