The newest, oldest whisky to join Ardbeg's core range is an impressively packaged 25 year old, an age statement not seen since the 'Lord of the Isles' bottlings over a decade ago. It's also the oldest permanent addition to the brand, distilled in the 1990s, and available in limited quantities due to its age and rarity. Readers should note that very little whisky was produced at the distillery in the middle '90s. Ardbeg’s production halted in 1981, then resumed in 1989 under Hiram Walker but remained at a low level until late 1996. Most Ardbeg enthusiasts will have tasted little from this distillery's 'quiet period'. Hence, this first edition represents a genuine slice of Islay history. Dr Bill Lumsden, Ardbeg’s chief whisky creator, comments: “After a quarter of a century in the cask, you’d be forgiven for imagining that Ardbeg 25 Years Old would have lost some of the hallmark smoky punch. I can assure you it hasn’t.... And yet there’s also a remarkable complexity and elegance to this whisky that I find utterly captivating. It’s unmistakably Ardbeg, but unlike any Ardbeg you’ve tasted before.” Strikingly presented in a gun metal coloured bottle, Ardbeg 25 comes housed in a case featuring a modern metallic take on the classic Ardbeg knotwork, symbolic of the untamed complexity of this extraordinary whisky. Notes from Ardbeg... smoked cream, peppermint, toffee, fennel and pine resin on the nose, leading to a ‘vibrant, hot peppery mouthfeel’ with flavours of sherbet lemon, carbolic soap and tar, creamy toffee, aniseed and chilli pepper. The finish is said to be long, mellow and lingering, with cream, fudge and antiseptic notes. Non chill filtered. 46% Alc./Vol.

Ardbeg is a renowned and revered name in the world of Scotch whisky. Situated on the remote Isle of Islay off the west coast of Scotland, Ardbeg Distillery has been producing exceptional single malt whiskies since 1815. Known for its distinctive peaty and smoky flavour profile, Ardbeg whiskies have gained a loyal following among whisky enthusiasts worldwide. The distillery's location plays a significant role in shaping the character of Ardbeg whiskies. The island's unique terroir, with its peat-rich soil and briny coastal influence, imparts a distinct maritime essence to the whiskies. This, combined with the traditional peat-smoking process, results in an unmistakable smoky aroma and flavour that is synonymous with Ardbeg. Ardbeg offers a diverse range of expressions, each showcasing its own unique characteristics. From the flagship Ardbeg 10 Year Old, with its bold and robust flavors of peat smoke, iodine and citrus, to limited editions and special releases, Ardbeg continuously pushes the boundaries of whisky craftsmanship. The distillery's commitment to traditional production methods and attention to detail is evident in every bottle of Ardbeg. The use of traditional copper pot stills, the carefully selected malted barley and the maturation process in oak casks all contribute to the complexity and depth of flavour found in Ardbeg whiskies. Ardbeg has garnered numerous awards and accolades over the years, solidifying its position as one of the world's leading whisky brands. To celebrate Ardbeg Day 2021, the distillery bottled this limited edition Ardbeg Scorch Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky. The packaging and flavour profile is a nod to Islay’s definitely-real-and-totally-not-made-up flavour breathing dragon! Matured in ex-bourbon American oak casks, fiercely charred, and jam packed with smoke, this limited release is not one to be missed. This whisky is a bright, brushed gold colour in the class. Aromas of smoke and soot lie in wait with hints of aniseed and patchouli. Add a drop of water to reveal herbal notes of sage, briarwood, and pine wisp. A charred oak palate with black liquorice weaving between notes of medicinal lozenge. A long finish dragging on into its happily ever after.

Ardbeg Wee Beastie has been matured for just 5 years, making it the untamed enfant terrible of the whisky world. Whereas most single malts seek the smoothness and balance of older age, Ardbeg Wee Beastie offers a monstrously smoky experience. On tasting, the whisky is not just incredibly smoky, but also surprisingly well balanced by the expert use of sherry cask maturation. Aroma: Very fresh, herbal, with hints of vanilla, pear, freshly cracked black pepper and honey-glazed ham. Rich Turkish coffee, sappy pine resin. With water, more herbal notes like vetiver and fennel, along with aniseed, green apple and leather. Taste: A rich, explosive mouthfeel with lots of chocolate, tar, creosote and smoked bacon, followed by a burst of antiseptic lozenges, eucalyptus and more aniseed. Finish: A long, salty and mouthcoating finish with hints of cocoa, fudge and savoury meats.

Rounded and smoky - like burning Applewood - with creamy toffee, aniseed, treacle and dates. A curious suggestion of juicy fruits, such as peach and banana. With a drop of water, reminders of Ardbeg's classic fragrance lime, pine resin, fennel, saddle soap and tar. A gentle waxiness, like fragrant candle wax, and hints of smoked herbs. An Oa gives a final subtle reminder of the sea with briny notes and seaweed but always accompanied with creaminess. A smooth, creamy texture leads into a huge syrupy sweetness, flavours of milk chocolate, treacle toffee, aniseed, orange and smoky tea leaves. Gentle, sweet spices (nutmeg & cinnamon), some cigar smoke, and a very unusual flavour of grilled artichokes. Wood is always present in the spirit, gently nutty and reminiscent of a carpenter's workshop. A long, sweet finish, with floral overtones, mint toffee and some gentle malty biscuit notes.