Overview
- The Masterclass Line-Up
- Ivan’s Passion and the Ardbeg Connection
- Tasting Notes & Highlights
- Cocktails with a Twist
- Final Thoughts
The Masterclass Line-Up
- Ardbeg An Oa – the softest and most approachable of the lineup.
- Ardbeg Smoketrails Manzanilla Edition – a rare beauty finished in dry sherry casks.
- Ardbeg Uigeadail – complex, deep, and dangerously drinkable.
- Ardbeg Smoketrails Côte Rôtie Edition – fruity, bold, and totally unexpected.
Ivan’s Passion and the Ardbeg Connection
Ivan didn’t just host this masterclass — he brought Ardbeg to life. His enthusiasm, storytelling, and deep knowledge created a real whisky moment. As someone who once represented Ardbeg professionally, it was heartwarming to see the brand in such passionate hands. The quality of the presentation, the flow of the tasting, and the bar’s intimate vibe made it all feel like a private journey to Islay.
Tasting Notes & Highlights
The standout for me? The Manzanilla Edition. Scotch finished in dry sherry casks (like fino or manzanilla) isn’t something you come across every day. The classic Ardbeg smoke of fresh peat meets balsamic and nutty aromas from the sherry — creating a dram that’s both elegant and wild. Think windswept meadows, beach bonfires, and a salty breeze through an old Andalusian bodega.
Then came the Côte Rôtie Edition, and wow — what a surprise! Strawberries, cherries, and that unmistakable Islay smoke. One guest mentioned: “It tastes like dessert.” And yes, he was 100% right.
Cocktails with a Twist
- Ardbeg An Oa – Smoked Old Fashioned A textbook Old Fashioned, elevated with orange wood smoke, cacao bitters, and elegance. Ivan, you nailed it.
- Ardbeg Uigeadail – Rob Roy Rich and deep with tobacco and wood cask bitters, garnished with a luxurious maraschino cherry. A classy twist with serious depth.
- Ardbeg Smoketrails Manzanilla – Penicillin As much as I love the Manzanilla neat, it was a bit shy in the Penicillin. Missing that iodine hit that Laphroaig usually brings — but hey, that’s what makes Laphroaig a legend, too.
Final Thoughts
Huge thanks to Nico and Ivan — not just for the invite, but for the hospitality, the vibes, and the reminder of how good whisky nights can feel. WHISPER is a gem in Alicante’s bar scene, and I’ll definitely be back soon. And yes, Nico — I owe you a bottle of Underberg.Cheers & slàinte!
