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Ardbeg, Scorch, Islay, Single Malt Scotch Whisky (46%)

  • Scotch Whisky
Product: 10008063878
Ardbeg, Scorch, Islay, Single Malt Scotch Whisky (46%)

Description

Established in 1815, Ardbeg Distillery on Islay is renowned for its heavily peated single malts. Ardbeg Scorch, released in 2021, pays homage to the distillery's smoky heritage. Ardbeg is known for its experimental releases, often pushing the boundaries of traditional whisky-making. The distillery's whiskies are among the peatiest in the world, with a distinctive smoky flavour. 

Iain Glover, Spirits Advisor, Berry Bros. & Rudd

Product Type Scotch Whisky
Main Ingredients Barley
Region Scotch Whisky OLD SAP
Producer Ardbeg Distillery, Islay

About this spirit

Ardbeg Distillery, Islay

The origins of Ardbeg (which in Gaelic means small headland) Distillery date as far back as 1794. John MacDougall established the present distillery on the south coast of Islay in 1815 and it was fully operational by 1817. The MacDougall family retained ownership until 1977 when Hiram Walker gained control. However, with most of its output used in blending, Ardbeg struggled to remain viable during the economic downturn of the 1970s, resulting in it being run on a care and maintenance basis from 1983. The distillery closed in July 1996, only to reopen in 1997. Ardbeg maintains the robust and earthy aromas associated with Islay malts. Described as having a hefty bite and a rich finish, flavours detected include peat smoke, seaweed, sawdust and iodine. Glenmorangie Plc bought the distillery in 1997. The new owners revived the tradition of producing a very peaty single malt. All the production is sold as single malt (which is rather unusual in the world of whisky). In 2019, a new still house was built to keep up with the increasing demand for this single malt. However, due to the Covid pandemic, it wasn’t opened until March 2021. Ardbeg is now the third most important Islay malt, with a range of limited releases showing its constant experimentation. (Adapted from the Malt Whisky Yearbook 2024)
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Barley

Barley is a key ingredient in the production of some of the world's most renowned spirits, particularly whiskey and Scotch whisky. Malted barley is used as the primary grain in many single malt and blended Scotch whiskies, where it contributes a distinct malty, nutty, and sometimes smoky flavour profile. In addition to Scotch, barley is also a staple in the production of Irish whiskey, where it often lends a smoother, creamier taste. The versatility of barley as a grain makes it a favorite for creating complex and deeply nuanced spirits cherished by enthusiasts worldwide.

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