This supreme expression proves unequivocally that age cannot tame Ardbeg's smoky power.
Ardbeg 25 Year Old
This supreme expression proves unequivocally that age cannot tame Ardbeg's smoky power. But it can yield some of the most complex and majestic flavours ever to burst forth from Ardbeg Distillery.
Colour: Bright Amber
Aroma: A pungent burst of smoked cream, peppermint and toffee, with Ardbeg's classic fennel and pine resin. Distant earthy bonfires mix with herbal and fruity (banana & tropical) notes, along with fragrant candle wax.
Taste: An extremely vibrant, hot peppery mouthfeel, leads in to a burst of sherbet, lemon sweetness (candied apples, pears & orange), hints of carbolic soap and tar, more creamy toffee, aniseed and chilli pepper.
Finish: A long mellow, lingering aftertaste, with lots of cream, fudge and delicate antiseptic notes. An elegant, soothing style of Ardbeg.
Ardbeg Distillery.
Situated on the southern coast of the Isle of Islay
Ardbeg Distillery, situated on the southern coast of the Isle of Islay in Scotland, boasts a rich history dating back to its founding in 1815 by John MacDougall. Initially operating illegally, the distillery became a legitimate enterprise under MacDougall's leadership. Over the years, Ardbeg experienced several changes in ownership, with notable proprietors including Thomas Buchanan, Colin Hay, and Alexander MacDougall & Co. By 1887, the distillery reached its peak, producing 250,000 gallons (1.1 million liters) of whisky annually, making it the most productive distillery on Islay. Despite these successes, the latter half of the 20th century brought significant challenges, resulting in periods of closure and uncertainty. However, a revival began in 1997 when the Glenmorangie Company took ownership, ushering in a new era of investment and rejuvenation.
Ardbeg is renowned for its peated whiskies, characterized by a rich, smoky flavor profile that has earned it cult status among whisky enthusiasts and collectors. The distillery's highly peated malt is considered one of the most highly regarded whiskies globally. Ardbeg offers a diverse range of whiskies, including core expressions like Ardbeg 10 Year Old and limited releases such as Ardbeg Uigeadail. Visitors to the distillery can enjoy guided tours, the Old Kiln Cafe, and a shop featuring distillery-exclusive releases. Ardbeg also maintains a strong connection to the local community on Islay, significantly contributing to the island's economy and culture.
Legacy
Notable among Ardbeg's releases is the Ardbeg 1975, a limited-edition whisky that fetched a record price of £16 million in 2022, making it one of the most valuable whiskies in the world. Another highlight is the Ardbeg Perpetuum, released in 2015 to celebrate the distillery's 200th anniversary, symbolizing a new era of innovation and experimentation. The Ardbeg Uigeadail, a 23-year-old expression, showcases the distillery's spirit with complex layers of smoke, fruit, and spice.
In summary, Ardbeg Distillery stands as a beacon of Islay whisky production, renowned for its compelling history and exceptional range of whiskies. Its legacy is further cemented by rare collaborations with independent bottlers and a strong connection to its community, solidifying its iconic status in the whisky industry.