Ardbeg 10 Year Old



It's a rainy night here in the Yukon. It's the perfect evening for some Blues and a smoky whisky. For the listening pleasure I have chosen Albert Kings Funky London. The other senses will be warmed by the Ardbeg 10 Year Old.

Funky London is not an album. It's a compilation that highlights Albert Kings funk spirit. These songs were recorded in the seventies during his time with Stax records. Right off the hop the cover of James Browns "Cold Sweat" gets you moving. This record above all is the perfect cure for any rainy day. The music is upbeat while Albert lets you know how much worse it can always be. Just listen to "Bad Luck" and you'll know what I mean.

In keeping with the rainy day theme The Ardbeg's smokiness is reminiscent of a wood fire. Just the thing to keep you warm on a night like this.


Nose: No surprise here smoke hits right at the front. There is also lemon, salt and a sugary sweetness.

Taste: Smoke and leather take the lead while a twist of lemon zest is nodding quietly in the back. The mouth feel is spectacular.

Finish: The smoke is there throughout. It is definitely the lead character in this play. It is however accompanied by a really fine supporting cast. Namely the sweet sugariness that keeps the smoke from overwhelming your palate. This finish is long and maintains a comfortable presence.   

On a side note I have to admit that when I first saw this pale coloured liquid I was a little disappointed. I have long been drawn to the darker coloured whiskies. This was a good lesson for me to know that good whisky doesn't have to be dark to be flavourful.

Thanks for reading and stay warm.