Ardbeg 1991-2002 11yo GM Spirit of Scotland for JIS #2017

A rich sherry-influenced Ardbeg from the early 90s. How many more times can we enjoy this? Ardbeg ARDBEG 1991-2002 11yo GM SPIRIT of SCOTLAND for JIS #2017 52.5% One of 295 bottles, Refill Sherry Hogshead The aroma features rich sherry, caramelized nuts, ripe plums, chocolate-covered dried orange, leaf mold, chlorine, and a strong peat. On the palate, it begins with a smooth mouthfeel expanding into a rich sherry, caramelized nuts, chocolate, a concentrated sweetness balanced by tannic dryness, some grassy notes, chlorine, and a strong peat with earthiness, leaving a long finish. [Good/Very Good] This Ardbeg 1991, aged for 11 years, was released in 2002 as part of the GM Spirit of Scotland series. It exhibits a notable sherry character, with elements like caramel, nuts, ripe fruits, and chocolate clearly present. At the same time, it showcases Ardbeg's signature briny peat and earthiness. While the former gives a warm impression and the latter a colder one, they seemed well-integrated, possibly due to bottle aging. Whether due to the sherry, peat, post-bottling changes, or all of the above, it feels remarkably mature with little youthfulness, offering a complex and satisfying Ardbeg experience. Ardbeg from the early 90s is already rare, and with a darker sherry cask, it's even rarer to encounter. This blend of warmth and cold is a unique characteristic, making it something I'd occasionally crave to drink.