Most of these Ardmore 2009 casks were ex-Laphroaig and so is this one. An extra layer added to the already peated spirit. This was bottled as a single cask release by The Whisky Exchange.
Aird Mhor 9 yo 2009 (58,5%, The Whisky Exchange 2019, Laphroaig barrel #707912, 242 btl.)
Nose: starts on a nice mix of coastal peat (mercurochrome, brine) and mainland peat (damp leaves, hay, fireside ashes). Sweet fruitiness behind it, mainly peaches, pears and roasted pineapple. Round vanilla.
Mouth: a big sweet side to counter the smoke. Peaches, stewed apples, hints of lemon peel. Some grassy notes, as well as the medicinal side of Laphroaig indeed. Chocolate and resinous / mineral hints towards the end.
Finish: long, on deep smoke, chocolate and crushed peppercorns.
The sweet fruits and deep smoky side go hand in hand, with just a hint of the Islay medicinal character. I have to say Ardmore rarely disappoints. Still a few bottles available from The Whisky Exchange.