The legendary Ardbeg 17 Year Old has returned after two decades. First launched in 1997 and discontinued in 2004, this lighter, more delicate expression was revived in 2024 thanks to the passion of the Ardbeg Committee. In this review, I explore its history, flavour profile, and why it remains an unmistakably Ardbeg dram.
Ardbeg An Oa showcases the distillery’s gentler side. Married from sherry, virgin oak and bourbon casks, it balances sweetness, spice and signature Islay smoke. Smooth, well-rounded, and endlessly drinkable, it’s the perfect introduction to Ardbeg — and proof that even the most intense distilleries can master subtlety.
Ardbeg Blaaack celebrates 20 years of the Ardbeg Committee with a daring twist — maturation in New Zealand Pinot Noir casks. The result is a smoky yet sweet dram that blends red fruit, peat, and playful innovation in perfect balance. A true cult whisky that proves Ardbeg’s creativity is as bold as its flavour.
Ardbeg’s first-ever Port cask release lives up to its name. Ardbeg Spectacular is a whisky that balances sweetness and smoke in a way few Islay drams dare to. This review explores its vibrant nose, dessert-like palate, and the carnival spirit that makes it one of Ardbeg’s most surprising and enjoyable limited editions.
Once on the brink of collapse, Ardbeg has risen to cult status — not just for its bold, peaty drams, but for the fiercely loyal community behind them. This article explores how clever marketing, creative storytelling, and genuinely great whisky turned the Ardbeg Committee into one of the most passionate fan groups in the whisky world.
