Ardbeg 19 Year Old Traigh Bhan Batch 4

The latest release of Ardbeg Traigh Bhan 19 Years Old is finally here. This sublime fourth batch is, like the batches before it, inspired by Islay’s Traigh Bhan beach.

Ardbeg Traigh Bhan masterfully performs the impossible – balancing the lull and crescendo of its intense flavours. Bottled under a full moon, the tides have turned for this rare spirit, as more mentholic, herbal notes rush the senses, with intense smoke left behind in its peaty wake.

In Ardbeg Traigh Bhan Batch 4, rising aromas of herbal pine and fennel flow into sharp notes of citrusy lime sorbet and medicinal lozenge, while eucalyptus and saddle soap follow on the breeze. A splash of water releases a cascade of hazelnut, sweet vanilla, and currants, before rich minted chocolate brings the nose to a close.

An intense wave of wood smoke crashes over the palate, leaving ripples of decadent dark chocolate and ground coffee in its wake. Sweeter notes of lemon curd and peanut brittle cut through the swell to reveal delicate hints of creamy raisin fudge and hazelnut.

The allure of this rare dram continues with suggestions of more medicinal, spicy notes. Menthol, fresh lemongrass, aniseed, clove and white pepper emerge from rich, smoky depths.