Description

Ardmore 2012 Aged 12 Years Single Malt Scotch Whisky – 100 Proof Collection By Signatory Vintage (700ml)

Volume: 700ml           ABV: 57.1%           Age: 12 Years Old           Country: Scotland

Cask Number(s): Edition #21
Date of Distilling: NA
Date of Bottling: NA
Matured In: 2nd Fill Bourbon Barrels After Islay (LA)

Signatory Vintage are an independent bottler founded in 1988 by Andrew and Brian Symington. The name ‘Signatory’ was derived from the initial intention to find a person of suitable standing to sign the labels for bottles drawn from a single cask. The first cask bottled was a 1968 Glenlivet which quickly sold through long before any suitable signee could be found. Signatory currently bottle at three strengths: 43%, 46% Unchillfiltered (UCF) and Cask Strength.To add proof of authenticity to their cask strength bottlings, Signatory always include the cask numbers, date of distillation, date of bottling and number of bottles produced.Signatory Vintage’s aim is to offer as wide a range of whiskies as possible, some of which are not even bottled by the proprietary distillery. This allows malt enthusiast to sample the huge variety of subtle differences which occur between casks.

The Ardmore Distillery, a hidden gem in the Scottish Highlands, has a rich history dating back to 1898. Founded by Adam Teacher of William Teacher & Sons, the distillery was built to secure a reliable supply of peated malt whisky for their renowned Teacher’s Highland Cream blend. One of Ardmore’s unique characteristics is its peated spirit, a rarity in the Speyside region. This distinctive quality sets it apart from many of its neighbours, offering a smoky and complex flavour profile. The peat used at Ardmore is sourced from the nearby Caithness region, imparting a smoky, medicinal character to the whisky. The distillery’s traditional pot stills, combined with the peated malt and the local water source, create a spirit that is both robust and elegant. Ardmore whiskies often exhibit a balance of smoky and sweet notes, with flavours of peat smoke, vanilla, honey, and citrus. The long, lingering finish is another hallmark of Ardmore’s single malts.

This single malt whisky was distilled in 2012 at the Ardmore distillery in the Scottish Highland whisky region. It was matured 2nd Fill Bourbon Barrels after the barrels had been used to mature Laphroaig whisky from Islay and in 2024 was bottled at 57.1% alc/vol as part of the Signatory Vintage 100 Proof range. This whisky has no added colouring and is unchillfiltered.

Our Tasting Notes

Nose: A delightful interplay of peat smoke and sweet fruit. The initial impression is a smoky, almost medicinal quality, reminiscent of bonfire ash and iodine. However, this is quickly balanced by a sweet and fruity profile, with notes of ripe pear, apple, and a touch of honey. A subtle hint of vanilla adds a creamy dimension.

Palate: The palate is rich and complex, with a robust peat smoke that lingers on the tongue. This is complemented by a wave of sweet flavours, including caramel, toffee, and dark chocolate. The influence of the Islay casks is evident, adding a maritime character to the spirit.

Finish: The finish is long and satisfying, with a lingering smoky note that gradually fades into a sweet, almost buttery aftertaste. A subtle hint of citrus peel adds a refreshing touch.

Overall Impression: This 12-year-old Ardmore is a fantastic example of a peated Highland whisky. The balance between smoke and sweetness is expertly executed, resulting in a complex and enjoyable dram. The influence of the Islay casks adds an extra layer of complexity, making this a truly unique expression.