Ardbeg Whisky Distillery

Address PORT ELLEN,

Telephone 

Fax 01496 302040

Owning Company Allied Distillers Ltd.

Production Status Operational

Established 1815

Source Lochs Arinambeast and Uigedale

Age when bottled 10 yrs

Strength 40%

Cask Woods American oak barrels

Nose Lovely peaty aroma with a hint of sweetness

Taste Full-bodied and luscious with an excellent aftertaste

Comments A filling after-dinner malt. Retains a low profile as a brand, it has a huge following amongst enthusiasts.

Description The distillery was founded in 1815 by the MacDougalls of Ardbeg, and the white-washed buildings are situated on the picturesque southern coast of Islay, near to Laphroaig and Lagavulin. Ardbeg has had a chequered past, and was closed for many years, but in 1997 was bought over by Glenmorangie plc and recommissioned. The spirit produced here is made the from distillery's own private water source from Loch Uigeadail, and is made in unusual stills with their Opurifier', which contributes to the quality and fine balance of the whisky. Ardbeg is a peaty whisky, but gives way to the sweetness of the malt. The visitor centre is housed in the distillery's original kiln and malt barn, which has displays of old artefacts from the distillery and features tales from the past. The shop has a wide range of Ardbeg malt whiskies and gifts. The tour charge is redeemable on any purchase over £15.00.

Rating ***