Ardnahoe Infinite Loch: straightforward peat delight
We like to keep up with Ardnahoe releases, ever since the Inaugural Release came out in 2024. Since then we have tasted the Society 2024 release too, and managed to catch the Feis Ile 2024 expression during my visit to Islay in January. For that last one, the circumstances were sadly not perfect to make tasting notes. Also disappointing was that I did not get the chance to visit the distillery. As many locations were starting up in the new year, Ardnahoe was still closed for tourists and whisky enthusiasts alike. I am sure we will get a new chance in the future. For now, we sink our teeth in a release that will be part of the core range.
Ardnahoe Infinite Loch, bottled at 50 % abv
First things first: Supposedly one of the core expressions for the foreseeable future, with the other core expression (the Ardnahoe Bholsa) just released. This Infinite Loch is matured in first fill bourbon casks and first fill oloroso sherry casks.
Upon Sipping: We have seen most Ardnahoe being mixed with sherry influences. The colour on this expression seems to suggest that few sherry casks were used. It definitely smells more unbothered and peat-forward, not unlike the Feis Ile 2024 expression I managed to taste in the Bowmore Hotel. That was a purely bourbon matured whisky. This Infinite Loch has a lot of lemons in the mix, with a delicate and sweet smoke not unlike the type you will find in Kildalton coast distilleries on Islay. Sea spray in the glass, very round and mature for its age. Impressive stuff. Taking a sip, the palate is gently caressed by the soft maritime taste. Lots of smoked barley, some sizzling meat, distinct whiffs of cigarette ash in the mouth. The sherry casks in the mix create just that tad of meaty character to make it interesting. Delicious finish all on lemons and ash.
Word to the Wise: Deeply impressive to see what Ardnahoe can do at such a young age. This is obviously more middle of the road than other examples we have sampled on this blog (search for them in the library) but as a core expression, this is an excellent introduction to the Ardnahoe splendour.
Score: 86 points.
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