Ardnamurchan AD 04.22:02
With the AD/04.22:02 release, the young Highland distillery Ardnamurchan once again demonstrates its commitment to transparency. This single malt is composed of ex-bourbon, American and Spanish Oloroso, as well as American and Spanish PX casks from the 2015 and 2016 vintages. Bottled in 2022 at 46.8% ABV, it is non-chill filtered and natural in colour – in true Ardnamurchan fashion.
The panel
Mean 81.5 · spread 3
Value for money 4/5
- Distillery
- Ardnamurchan
- Type
- Single Malt
- Region
- Highlands
- Country
- Scotland
- Strength
- 46.8% ABV
- Character
- spicy
Tasting
Nose
The first impression is shaped by cool smoke that doesn’t dominate but blends gently with other notes. Fresh popcorn and a subtle herbal character emerge, joined by a hint of chalk. A bright, fresh citrus note stands out prominently. A touch of vanilla adds roundness, while a faint red fruit note—reminiscent of raspberry—lingers in the background. The overall profile is pleasantly maritime.
Palate
On the palate, the whisky comes across as fruity and fresh. Lime takes the lead, delivering a pronounced citrus impact. A subtle salty note adds depth, accompanied by a hint of minerality. The texture is creamy and soft. A gentle smoky layer floats through the mouth, enhancing the overall complexity without overpowering the palate.
Finish
The finish is medium in length. Dark chocolate comes to the fore, paired with a pleasant spiciness. A note of bitter orange provides a mildly tangy conclusion.
Verdicts
Marcel
Ardnamurchan AD 04.22:02 is a genuine pleasure, with its fresh citrus notes and gentle smoke immediately whetting the appetite for more. Despite its youth, it comes across as surprisingly rounded and inviting – a whisky that’s fun to drink yet still shows character.
Sascha
With clear cask documentation and precise aromatics, the Ardnamurchan AD 04.22:02 impresses through its balanced harmony and structured complexity. The harmonious interplay of fruit, minerality, and delicate smoke highlights the technical maturity that you don’t always expect from a young Highland release.
What it is worth
We do not yet hold bottle-level auction results — that sits behind Whisky Hunter’s authenticated feed. What follows is the market for Ardnamurchan as a whole, which sets the weather for this bottling without pricing it.
Latest mean bid £70 across 128 lots · 2024-08