Ardnamurchan Madeira Cask Release is an expressive and elegant single malt that beautifully blends tradition with modern innovation. Crafted from a mix of peated and unpeated malt – roughly 60% unpeated and 40% peated – this whisky was distilled in 2018 and initially matured in bourbon casks before being finished in carefully selected Madeira barriques. The result is a dram with depth, balance, and a rich, wine-like complexity that showcases the Ardnamurchan distillery’s signature style.
The nose is deep and inviting, with notes of cocoa powder, ripe plums, marzipan, and warm baking spices like nutmeg. Hints of sandalwood, wild heather, and tart red berries add freshness and dimension, creating a rich yet nuanced aromatic profile.
On the palate, the whisky delivers layers of flavour: spiced apple, chocolate-covered nuts, rosemary, toffee, and a delicate minerality. The peat smoke is gentle and well-integrated – more like a soft ember than a full flame – providing structure without overpowering the fruit and sweetness.
The finish is long and elegant, slightly dry and subtly spiced, with echoes of cedar, soft smoke, and a lingering earthy warmth. It’s a satisfying conclusion that ties together the whisky’s complexity with finesse.
Ardnamurchan Madeira Cask Release reflects the distillery’s commitment to quality, transparency, and sustainability. It’s a whisky that carries the wild, coastal character of western Scotland while embracing the richness of Madeira-matured spirit. A balanced and memorable dram that speaks to both the curious newcomer and the seasoned enthusiast.
