Ardbeg Distillery is one of those whiskies that has a cult following, having endured the highest highs and some perilous lows. Located on the southern coast of the Isle of Islay, Scotland, Arbdeg is exposed to the elements and has become one of the most renowned producers of peated single malt Scotch whisky. Founded in 1815, Ardbeg has a long been celebrated for its intensely peated and smoky whiskies, which capture the essence of Islay’s windswept shores and the region’s rich whisky-making tradition. The distillery’s signature style is characterized by a balance of deep peat smoke, complex flavors, and a surprising sweetness that sets it apart from other Islay whiskies.
Ardbeg has developed a dedicated global fanbase known as the “Ardbeg Committee,” established in 2000 to keep the distillery’s spirit alive. Members of the committee often get early access to special releases and are part of a community that celebrates the unique qualities of Ardbeg whisky. There are over 7000 Ardbeg Committee members in Australia – proving this country has a strong following for peat loving whisky fans, particularly of this distillery.
Lawrence Head, the distillery’s prestige ambassador, is visiting Australia to present three of the most celebrated and revered Ardbeg whiskies, one of which has a total production run of 404 bottles. Fortunately for Drinks Trade, he opened one.
Ardbeg Corryvreckan
ABV: 57.1%
Maturation: Ex-Bourbon Casks
Appearance: Deep amber with golden hues.
Nose: Intense and powerful, with a swirl of dark chocolate, espresso, and black currants. Islay peat smoke is present but not overwhelming, mingling with spicy black pepper and clove. Sea salt and brine underscores the coastal character.
Palate: Bold is an understatement. This whisky is robust, offering a rich tapestry of flavors. The peat smoke is assertive, complemented by notes of roasted coffee, dark fruits, and bitter orange peel. Spicy notes of cracked black pepper, anise, and cinnamon come through, balanced by a creamy vanilla sweetness from the ex-bourbon cask.
Finish: Long and warming, with a lingering spice and smoke. The dark chocolate and coffee notes gradually withdrawl and the warmth lingers.
Overall: A whisky with a commanding presence. The high ABV adds intensity, while the ex-bourbon cask influence provides a well-rounded complexity.
Ardbeg Vintage_Y2K
ABV: 46%
Maturation: Bourbon and Oloroso Casks
Appearance: Rich amber with reddish highlights (note…the room was dark).
Nose: Sweet and smoky notes. Delicious, rich dried fruits, raisins, figs, and dates from the Oloroso cask; vanilla, honey, and a touch of toffee. The peat smoke is more restrained, allowing the sherry influence to shine through, with a hint of leather and tobacco in the background.
Palate: Rich and balanced, with a delightful interplay between sweetness and smoke. The sherry influence brings flavors of dark chocolate, candied orange peel, and stewed fruits, while the bourbon casks contribute vanilla, caramel, and a touch of coconut. The peat smoke is subtle, adding depth without overpowering the sweeter elements.
Finish: Medium to long, with the sherry sweetness lingering alongside gentle smoke and a touch of oak spice. A faint nuttiness emerges towards the end.
Overall: A beautifully balanced Ardbeg that was a real pleasure to taste. Both the smoky character and the rich, fruity influence of sherry casks.
Ardbeg The Abyss
ABV: 48.4%
Maturation: Heavily Toasted French Oak Casks
Note: Only 404 bottles available worldwide.
Appearance: Deep, dark amber with a slight mahogany tint. Possibly the darkest Arbeg made.
Nose: Rich and complex, with layers of dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and spiced fruitcake.
Palate: Full-bodied and velvety, with a luxurious mouthfeel. The initial sweetness of toffee and dark chocolate is quickly enveloped by robust flavours of charred oak, espresso, and dark fruits like black cherries and plums. The peat smoke is dense and earthy, mingling with the rich, toasted oak spices and a touch of black pepper. Incredibly complex but approachable. This whisky welcomes you in and invites you to discover the layers of Isaly goodness.
Finish: Long and intense, with the charred oak and dark chocolate lingering alongside a deep, smoky aftertaste. Subtle notes of dried fruits and spice continue to evolve, leaving a lasting impression.
Overall: A deeply complex and rich whisky far outside my price range, clearly displaying influence from the heavily toasted French oak casks. The smoke and wood combine beautifully, offering a dramatic and intense experience that is both bold and refined.
