Ardbeg is a renowned Scottish distillery located on the southern coast of the Isle of Islay. The distillery has a rich history dating back to 1815 when it was founded by John McDougall. Ardbeg is known for producing some of the finest single malt whiskies in the world, with a distinct smoky and peaty flavor that is characteristic of Islay whiskies.
The production process at Ardbeg is steeped in tradition and has remained largely unchanged over the years. The distillery uses locally sourced malted barley, which is then mashed and fermented in wooden washbacks. The resulting wash is then distilled twice in copper pot stills, which are heated by direct fire. The spirit is then aged in oak casks, which have previously held bourbon or sherry.
Ardbeg produces a range of whiskies, including their flagship expression, the Ardbeg 10 Year Old. This whisky is matured for a minimum of 10 years in ex-bourbon casks, giving it a smooth and mellow flavour with notes of vanilla and citrus. Other notable expressions include the Ardbeg Uigeadail, which is aged in a combination of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, and the Ardbeg Corryvreckan, which is aged in a combination of new and ex-French oak casks.
Ardbeg has won numerous awards over the years, including the World Whiskies Awards' "World's Best Single Malt" in 2017 for their Ardbeg An Oa expression. The distillery is also known for its commitment to sustainability, with a focus on reducing waste and energy consumption.
Overall, Ardbeg is a must-try for any whisky enthusiast, with its rich history, traditional production methods, and exceptional range of whiskies. Whether you're a fan of smoky and peaty whiskies or prefer something a bit more mellow, Ardbeg has something to offer.
