Ardmore 2016 from Adelphi Selection is a strongly character-driven single cask bottling where two signature traits meet: Ardmore’s peaty Highland DNA and a sherry maturation that brings depth, dark fruit, and structure. The whisky was distilled in 2016, matured for eight years, and bottled in 2025 at natural cask strength of 59.7% ABV. It comes from a single cask—cask #1052, a refill Oloroso sherry butt—and the release is limited to 632 bottles.
On the nose you’ll often find a combination of sooty, dry peat smoke and sherry tones leaning toward raisins, figs, and dark chocolate. There’s also a thread of polished oak and spice that signals a whisky with real presence. The palate is intense and “straight-talking” in style: smoke and peppery strength arrive early, followed by a sweeter sherry core with dried fruit, cocoa, and a nuttier edge. The refill nature of the cask keeps the sherry from turning sticky, instead adding backbone and balance—while Ardmore’s smoke continues to sit like a warm, broad blanket across the whole flavour profile. The finish is long, carrying smoke, cocoa, dried fruit, and a firm but controlled oak grip.
Serving tip: Try it neat first to feel the full intensity. Then add a few drops of water—this usually smooths the sharpest peppery edges, opens up the sweetness, and gives the fruit more room without the smoke disappearing.
About the producer: Ardmore and Adelphi Ardmore is a Highland distillery in Kennethmont, Aberdeenshire, founded in 1898. It’s especially known for a smokier style than many other Highland malts—a combination of peat, malty sweetness, and a slightly robust, earthy character that works beautifully in both bourbon and sherry casks.
Adelphi is a highly respected independent bottler known for strict cask selection and small releases—often single cask—where flavour matters more than volume. When a whisky appears in the Adelphi Selection range, it’s effectively a quality stamp for anyone looking for clear distillery character, power, and a more hands-on style than many standard releases.
