Ardnamurchan AD/10YO tasting notes

Ardnamurchan AD/10YO OB 70cl 50% ABV
10th Anniversary series
Distilled 2014, bottled September 3, 2024
A mix of 58 American standard ex-Bourbon barrels and 2 butts (all unpeated), 32 of which were subsequently finished for over one year in Paul Launois Champagne barriques
Bottle 939/16,746



Color: pale gold.
Nose: pineapples, wax, praline candies, vanilla, rye bread, meringue cookies, sweet yellow apples, garlic, lemon pie, unripe bananas, cocoa, grassy notes, melon, hay, and subtle hints of sliced tri-tip steak. Delicately fruity.
Taste: pears, wax, honey, lemons, meringue cookies, chocolate, candies, a touch of pepper, peaches, apricots, and lime. Smooth and well-balanced, though feeling somewhat lightweight. Rather sweet.
Finish: mint candies, honey, pears, more prominent black pepper, lime, caramel, vanilla, chocolate, peaches, and a touch of salt.
Score: 8 ½. Good. +2+1+1.

Conclusion: a well-crafted and thoroughly enjoyable Ardnamurchan — congratulations on the 10th anniversary! However, the whisky's texture leans a bit too light, and the choice of Champagne (Chardonnay) barriques for finishing feels somewhat odd. I can't help but think that sherry or red wine casks would have added greater depth. I also find myself longing for a touch of peat, as their peated expressions truly shine. That said, Ardnamurchan remains the most exciting new Scottish Highland distillery in my book. 85/100.

Robert Pete Williams — Blues on My Mind (2024) @@@@@

This double-disc set features previously released recordings by Robert Pete Williams (1914–1980), the legendary bluesman from the Greater Baton Rouge area of Louisiana.

The first disc presents the complete album Louisiana Blues, recorded in July 1966 in Berkeley, CA, and originally released on John Fahey's Takoma label. This album consists of ten tracks, including Ugly — a song that so captivated Captain Beefheart that he recorded his own version, Grown So Ugly for his 1967 debut album Safe as Milk. Williams' guitar playing is strikingly unique — his music flows with improvisational freedom and unpredictability, yet it stays firmly rooted in a deep, driving rhythm and is characterized by a mesmerizing, hypnotic feel. I can't choose a favorite composition on the album — every track is outstanding, making for a captivating listen from start to finish.

Additionally, the disc includes four bonus songs recorded live on November 23 and 24, 1979, at the Théâtre de Sartrouville, located in a suburb of Paris, France. By this time, Williams' health had begun to decline, but you wouldn't know it from his powerful performance, highlighted by impressive slide guitar. Sadly, he passed away about a year later. These selections were originally released on the 1980 album Ferraillages including solo tracks by Robert Pete Williams and Dutch musician Dick Annegarn.

The second disc contains the complete studio album I Blues di Robert "Pete" Williams (1978), recorded on September 19, 1977, at Cinemusic in Milan, Italy. This recording offers even better sound quality than the Takoma release showcasing some exceptional slide work. With eleven more stunning songs, the album creates the feeling that Robert is performing right in your living room. Louise stands out as my favorite track for its powerful vocal delivery, while Big Fat Mama delights with expressive slide guitar.

An essential reissue, if only for the rare Italian album alone. Louisiana Blues is widely accessible and easy to find.