The MacDougall family established Ardbeg Distillery in 1815, and it is located on the island of Islay’s southern shore. The distillery, which became infamous for making some of the strongest and most robust Scotch whisky in the business, employed almost one-third of the island’s inhabitants at the end of the 19th century. The distillery is still a living example of Scottish ingenuity and tradition today.

Malted barley that has been peated to about 50 phenol parts per million is used to make Ardbeg Single Malt Scotch Whisky. When the peated barley reaches the distillery, it is crushed and ground with water from Loch Uigeadail and then fermented in Oregon pine washbacks. Wooden washbacks absorb some of the heat produced during fermentation, making the whisky lighter and richer, but they are more costly and more difficult to maintain than stainless steel washbacks. Furthermore, the whisky receives carbolic chemicals from the wooden washbacks.

After 55 hours of fermentation, the wash undergoes two distillations: one in a copper-pot wash still and another in a copper-pot spirit still. Part of the evaporating vapors are pumped back into the pot and re-distilled since the spirit still has a purifier that serves as a little condenser. This purification method, which is uncommon in the industry, produces whiskey with a distinctively malty and crisp flavor.

Three Ardbeg whiskies from their permanent lineup are included in this gift set: Ardbeg An Oa, the newly added 5-year-old Ardbeg Wee Beastie, and the traditional Ardbeg 10. Each 20 cL bottle of these non-chill filtered products has a distinctive artwork concealed beneath the detachable label. The An Oa uses three distinct casks to mature, Wee Beastie is a distinctive and young whisky with the addition of sherry casks, and the 10 is Ardbeg’s flagship. It’s the ideal present for a young Scotch enthusiast or anyone who wants to learn more about the benefits of peated whiskey.

Get this gift package now to explore the smoky side of Scotch!

Notes on Tasting

Ardbeg 10: Softer flavors of vanilla and lemon zest counterbalance the rich scents of seaside air, taffy, and distinct peat smoke. Notes of espresso, chocolate-covered almonds, and malt grain perfectly season the slightly sweet finish.

Ardbeg Wee Beastie: Notes of honeyed ham, pear, black pepper, vanilla, and herbs abound in the nose. It also contains some pine resin and coffee. Chocolate, smoky bacon, eucalyptus, and aniseed are all brought to the table by the palate. has a lengthy, salty finish with aromas of cured meat and cocoa that linger.

Ardbeg An Oa: The aroma includes notes of dates, peach, banana, saline, smoked applewood, and creamy toffee. The tongue is accompanied by mild, sweet spices (nutmeg and cinnamon), wood, some cigar smoke, milk chocolate, treacle caramel, aniseed, orange, and smoky tea leaves, as well as mild nutty notes. It has a lengthy, sweet, smokey aftertaste.