I grumble about some of Ardbeg's bullshit antics but I had to praise them for exploiting what is a very fine niche in their core range with Wee Beastie. Peat often balances youth but add some decent sherry sweetness to it and that youth makes it a very interesting combination. The smoked ham that usually accompanies that trio is held in check because this is sweeter than expected. It's smoky but it's very well balanced. It's also cheaper than any of its Islay challengers for this type of whisky. In terms of style I'd say Kilchoman Sanaig is its closest challenger. I love Ardbeg10 but this is significantly different to it to make them both recommendable without comparing the two.
Thanks for sharing these insights. Ardbeg does get a bad wrap, especially for it's specially releases which does seem justified. This does fill a gap in the market well.
Thanks for shining a light on Ardbeg, Toby. Imo the Wee Beastie is a cecent dram, though not the best Ardbeg I've had. So looking forward to you further exploration. Slàinte mhath
I grumble about some of Ardbeg's bullshit antics but I had to praise them for exploiting what is a very fine niche in their core range with Wee Beastie. Peat often balances youth but add some decent sherry sweetness to it and that youth makes it a very interesting combination. The smoked ham that usually accompanies that trio is held in check because this is sweeter than expected. It's smoky but it's very well balanced. It's also cheaper than any of its Islay challengers for this type of whisky. In terms of style I'd say Kilchoman Sanaig is its closest challenger. I love Ardbeg10 but this is significantly different to it to make them both recommendable without comparing the two.
Thanks for sharing these insights. Ardbeg does get a bad wrap, especially for it's specially releases which does seem justified. This does fill a gap in the market well.
Thanks for shining a light on Ardbeg, Toby.
Imo the Wee Beastie is a cecent dram, though not the best Ardbeg I've had. So looking forward to you further exploration.
Slàinte mhath
For their entry level dram it surprised me. Thanks for watching.
I have grown to enjoy this and will soon have another! Cheers!
This was better than I thought it might be for the age and price.
Think this will be next on my list after i get through the Smoketrails travel retail….
I've actually not tried this, despite seeing it on the shelf plenty of times... might have to fix that
Let me know how you find it, if you do.