I believe this is the first time I see Decadent Drinks releases that are exclusive to a certain retailer. In this case it’s Whisky Bibliothek in Switzerland. They have a Mannochmore and Ardmore, both in the Decadent Drams series.
Mannochmore 18 yo 2007 (54,3%, Decadent Drams for Whisky Bibliothek 2026, refill hogshead + Oloroso sherry finish, 275 btl.)
Nose: bits of both. Ripe orchard fruits, plums and stewed peaches, but also darker dried fruits from the sherry. Plenty of raisins, some cherry jam. Then also a hint of golden syrup and vanilla, with chocolate and toffee. Hints of tobacco after a while. Excellent balance.
Mouth: the darker notes stay strong, mixing all kinds of jams with brown sugar and added hints of coffee. However it’s not a true sherry bomb, as it still has a bit of stewed apples, syrup and vanilla sweetness. Then also walnuts and almonds, big hints of marmalade and some baking spice.
Finish: medium to long, still quite rich and rounded. Hints of espresso, plums and leather.
A really nice Mannochmore, with an above-average sweetness. It takes the richness from both its maturation periods. Exclusively available from Whisky Bibliothek. Too bad it will be difficult to get them delivered outside of Switzerland.
Ardmore 28 yo 1997 (55,6%, Decadent Drams for Whisky Bibliothek 2026, refill hogshead + sherry finish, 264 btl.)
Nose: rather dry, old-skool smoke with hints of burnt hay, sooty exhaust and subtle sheep stable notes. Old greasy leather as well, while also developing roasted walnuts and a light metallic edge. Greenish fruits appear in the distance.
Mouth: rather oily, with hints of coal ashes, olive oil and sweet herbs. Moderate waxiness and more nutty hints. There’s an earthy side to it, but also a vibrant hint of plums and apples, maybe pineapple even. A hint of Greek oregano before it moves to grapefruit and pepper.
Finish: medium to long, balancing between sweet echoes, chalk, nuts and ashy notes.
Decadent Drinks got hold of some very good Ardmore casks and this is no different. Really elegant and complex, with a beautiful waxy side and here also a nice farmyard touch. You may get it from Whisky Bibliothek. Score: 90/100