DRAM1 Awards Panel Edition
The Ardnamurchan Madeira Cask is a bold, peated single malt that combines coastal smokiness with rich sherry and Madeira influence. Drawing from the DRAM1 Award panel tasting notes, this review synthesizes the dram’s nose, palate, finish, and overall character.
Stats
Distillery: Ardnamurchan
Whisky Type: Scotch Single Malt
ABV: 52% (104 Proof)
Tasting Notes – Ardnamurchan Madeira Cask
Nose
The nose is complex, smoky, and slightly coastal, with an intriguing mix of fruit, spice, and a hint of medicinal notes:
- Smoke and peat: gentle but present, campfire, ash, light iodine, subtle coastal brine
- Sherry/Madeira influence: raisins, dried fruits, stewed red fruits, candied peel
- Sweet and dessert notes: vanilla, caramel, toffee, honey, chocolate
- Other impressions: leather, tobacco, mild spice, earthy undertones, faint medicinal/forest floor notes
The panel found it inviting and evolving, with the smoke and sweet cask influence balancing well. Some described a small kampvuurtje in the distance, with hints of sea spray and subtle jodium adding character.
Palate
The palate is full-bodied, richly layered, and slightly oily, with a mix of smoke, fruit, and sweet-spice elements:
- Smoky/peaty: light to moderate peat, campfire ash, gentle coastal influence
- Fruity sweetness: raisins, plums, red fruits, hints of citrus, Madeira cask sweetness
- Spice and warmth: black pepper, chili, subtle ginger, cinnamon
- Cask influence: vanilla, oak, mild tannins, chocolate, toffee
- Other impressions: leathery, earthy, slightly oily mouthfeel, a hint of salted caramel
Panelists noted it is well-balanced and multilayered, with a slightly raw edge that gives character without overwhelming. The whisky has a good mouthcoating presence, with a subtle warmth from alcohol that adds depth.
Finish
The finish is medium to long, layered, and warming, highlighting:
- Lingering smoke: gentle peat, ash, subtle coastal saltiness
- Sweet cask echoes: caramel, toffee, chocolate, honey
- Fruity notes: stewed red fruits, raisins, light Madeira influence
- Spice and wood: black pepper, mild tannins, faint woody bitterness
While not overly refined, the finish is pleasingly complex, leaving a softly drying, slightly bitter edge that keeps the palate engaged.
Food Pairing
The Ardnamurchan Madeira Cask pairs beautifully with bold, smoky, and richly flavored foods:
- Dark chocolate or chocolate desserts
- Roasted meats, smoked ham, or barbecue
- Spiced dishes: black pepper, mild chili, or cinnamon-based
- Strong cheeses: aged Cheddar, smoked Gouda, or blue cheese
- Nuts and dried fruits: roasted almonds, figs, and raisins
These pairings enhance the smokiness, sweet-spice complexity, and dried fruit notes of the dram.
Verdict
Strengths
- Complex and multi-layered: smoke, fruit, spice, and Madeira sweetness work well together
- Inviting nose: evolves in the glass, blending peat, dried fruit, and subtle coastal notes
- Full-bodied palate: rich, oily, slightly raw edge that gives character
- Pleasant finish: medium-long, warming, with a mix of sweet, fruity, and smoky notes
Weaknesses
- Slightly raw in parts: some sharpness or astringency from young casks
- Not overly polished: may feel rough around the edges for some tasters
- Alcohol warmth noticeable: high ABV can dominate if sipped too quickly
Final Thoughts
The Ardnamurchan Madeira Cask is a bold and characterful whisky, offering smoke, sherry, Madeira influence, and a touch of coastal brine. The nose is complex and inviting, the palate rich and full-bodied, and the finish long, warming, and layered.
The dram delivers a sherry-forward experience with subtle peat and spice, appealing to whisky enthusiasts who enjoy bold, coastal Highland malts with a sweet, fruity backbone. While slightly raw and edgy at times, it remains highly rewarding for those who appreciate a multi-layered dram that evolves in the glass.
Panel Ratings: Nose 84 / Palate 85 / Finish 85
Verdict: Highly Recommended – a robust, smoky-sherry dram with Madeira sweetness and coastal character, perfect for thoughtful sipping.
