Ardbeg Strana 1 z 1

Ardbeg is among the most iconic distilleries on the island of Islay and is synonymous with intensely peated single malt whisky. The distillery is located in isolation by a small bay on the southern coast of Islay, an area historically known for illicit distillation. Its remote location and harsh conditions once provided an ideal refuge for whisky smugglers before legal production was established.

The history of Ardbeg distillery

The legal distillery was founded in 1815 by John McDougall, laying the foundations for a brand that quickly earned an exceptional reputation. Despite having a smaller production capacity than neighbouring distilleries Laphroaig and Lagavulin, Ardbeg’s Islay whisky has always been highly sought after for its distinctive character and quality.

Periods of decline and revival

Throughout the 20th century, Ardbeg experienced several challenging periods. The distillery was closed in 1981, reopened on a limited scale in 1989, and closed again in 1996. A turning point came in 1997, when the distillery was acquired by the Glenmorangie Company. This was followed by extensive renovation and Ardbeg’s return to the very top tier of peated whiskies.

Recommended Ardbeg whiskies

To explore the classic style of the Ardbeg distillery, we recommend Ardbeg 10-year-old, one of the world’s most iconic peated whiskies, offering a pure expression of smoke, citrus and maritime salinity. For those who enjoy greater complexity, Ardbeg Uigeadail is well worth discovering, combining intense peat with the sweetness of sherry casks. Experienced enthusiasts may prefer Ardbeg Corryvreckan, a powerful and robust whisky with pronounced smoke, spice and a deep, long finish.