ARDBEG - Drum - Limited Edition 2019 - 46%
Ardbeg is an iconic distillery located on the island of Islay, in Scotland. Recognized as one of the oldest distilleries on the island, it is famous for its whiskies among the most peated and intense on the market. Ardbeg holds a unique place in spirits history, having been the first whisky to travel into space: indeed, in 2011, part of its production was sent to the International Space Station to study the impact of weightlessness on the aging and aromatic complexity of whisky.
The distillery has been producing this exceptional spirit since 1798 and launched its first whisky in 1815, the same year as its illustrious neighbor Laphroaig. From the beginning, Ardbeg met with rapid success, notably due to strong demand for its editions intended for blends. However, starting in 1838, the distillery went through a long period of ownership changes and financial difficulties, leading to its closure in 1981. It reopened in 1989, although its activity was then limited to two months per year. It was only in 1997, with the acquisition by Glenmorangie, that production fully resumed. Today, Ardbeg is proudly owned by the French luxury group LVMH as part of its Glenmorangie group.
Ardbeg's two traditional stills produce about one million liters of alcohol annually, exclusively marketed as Single Malt. This exceptional whisky is mainly matured in Bourbon casks, with additional maturation in small proportions in Sherry casks, providing richness and complexity. Ardbeg is distinguished by an intensely peated flavor profile, while offering a rather unique experience, as it does not present the usual pronounced maritime character typical of Islay whiskies. It is renowned for its perfect balance between smoky, spicy, and sweet notes, which captivate the most demanding enthusiasts.
Ardbeg Drum is a rare limited edition, initially aged in ex-Bourbon casks, then carefully finished in ex-Rum casks, which adds an additional dimension of sweetness and aromatic complexity to this exceptional Single Malt.
Powerful peated profile (+ 50-55 ppm)