Ardlair (Ardmore) 11 yo (2011/2023), Signatory Vintage – Cask Strength (Oloroso Sherry), 62.5%

Introduction

Ardlair, a rare independent bottling of Ardmore whisky by Signatory Vintage, represents a distinctive expression of this Highland distillery’s character enhanced through specialized Oloroso sherry maturation.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Malted barley from the Highland region of Scotland, distilled at the Ardmore distillery (labeled as Ardlair for this independent bottling)
• Distillation process: Traditional Scottish pot still distillation at Ardmore distillery, known for their meticulous approach to spirit creation
• Maturation: Aged for 11 years (2011-2023) with significant time in Oloroso Sherry casks that impart rich, complex flavor compounds
• Special techniques: Bottled at natural cask strength (62.5%) without chill filtration to preserve all original flavor components

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Rich dried fruits, dark chocolate, cinnamon spice with underlying notes of vanilla, roasted nuts, and subtle oak
• Palate: Intense sherry influence with concentrated dried fruits, dark chocolate, Christmas cake, and warming baking spices, balanced by hints of maltiness and toffee
• Finish: Long, warming, and persistent with dried fruit sweetness, oak spice, and a gradually developing nuttiness

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (16-18°C)
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass to concentrate the aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water to open up the complex flavors; at 62.5%, water will reveal new dimensions while taming the alcohol strength
• Food pairings: Dark chocolate, dried fruits, fruit cake, or aged cheeses that complement the sherry-influenced character

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 62.5% ABV (cask strength)
• Bottle size: 70cl standard bottle
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Highland region
• Certifications/Awards: Independent bottling from Signatory Vintage, renowned for their careful cask selection and quality standards

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

This exceptional Ardmore (bottled as Ardlair) represents a perfect marriage of Highland whisky character and luxurious Oloroso sherry cask influence, creating a singular expression unlike standard distillery bottlings.

With only a limited number of bottles produced from selected casks, this Signatory Vintage bottling offers whisky enthusiasts a rare opportunity to experience a distinctive expression that will not be replicated.

Bottled at natural cask strength by Signatory Vintage, one of Scotland’s most respected independent bottlers known for their uncompromising standards and access to exceptional casks.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Discerning whisky collectors and enthusiasts actively seek out these limited Signatory Vintage releases for their exceptional quality and representation of distillery character.

Those who have committed to exploring Ardmore’s distinctive style will find this sherry-matured expression reveals new dimensions of this Highland distillery’s potential.

Independent bottlings like this are increasingly appreciated by connoisseurs for offering unique perspectives on distillery character that official bottlings rarely showcase.

From Signatory Vintage to You

Signatory Vintage has shared their privileged access to exceptional casks, offering whisky lovers the chance to experience a truly distinctive expression they couldn’t find elsewhere.

The approachable yet complex character makes this whisky appealing to both newcomers to sherry-matured whiskies and experienced connoisseurs who will appreciate its nuanced depth.

By selecting this bottle, you join a community of whisky enthusiasts who value authenticity, craftsmanship, and the exploration of unique expressions that showcase Scotland’s diverse whisky heritage.