The Character of Islay - ARDBEG - 14 years old - Vintage 2005 - 49.1%
This exceptional expression of Ardbeg is marketed by The Character of Islay Whisky Company, a renowned independent bottler that exclusively distributes premium whiskies from the island of Islay. True to the traditions and authenticity of Islay, this single malt distilled in 2005 at the Ardbeg distillery has benefited from a careful aging of 14 years to develop a remarkable aromatic complexity.
Ardbeg is an iconic distillery located in the heart of the island of Islay, in Scotland. Founded in 1798, it is one of the oldest distilleries on the island and enjoys worldwide renown for its whiskies among the peatiest and smokiest available. Ardbeg is also famous for being the first whisky to travel into space: in 2011, part of its production was sent to the International Space Station, paving the way for unprecedented studies on the effects of weightlessness on the aging and flavor of whisky.
Since its first release in 1815, the same year as its illustrious neighbor Laphroaig, Ardbeg has won over lovers of authentic whisky, both as a single malt and as a component of prestigious blends. Despite difficult periods, including changes of ownership, bankruptcies, and a temporary closure between 1981 and 1989, the distillery resumed full-time regular production in 1997 after being acquired by Glenmorangie. Today, Ardbeg is proudly owned by the French luxury group LVMH, under the banner of the Glenmorangie group, a symbol of excellence and innovation in Scottish whisky.
Ardbeg's two traditional stills produce about one million liters of pure alcohol annually, offered exclusively as exceptional Single Malt. The whisky mainly matures in American Bourbon barrels, with a negligible portion in Sherry casks, giving it a unique profile combining roundness and complexity. Ardbeg is famous for its intense peaty power, but also stands out for its smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet character, offering a rich and balanced sensory experience, without the strong maritime notes that characterize some other Islay whiskies.
Peaty
