ARDBEG - 19 years old - Traigh Bhan - Vintage 2001 - Batch 3 - 46.2% ABV
Ardbeg is an iconic distillery located on the island of Islay in Scotland, globally renowned for producing some of the most peaty and fascinating whiskies. Founded in 1798, this distillery is one of the oldest on Islay and boasts a rich history combining tradition and innovation. Ardbeg holds the honor of being the first whisky to travel into space: in 2011, part of its production was sent to the International Space Station for a unique experiment on the effects of weightlessness on aging and flavor, making this distillery a pioneer in extraterrestrial maturation.
For over two centuries, Ardbeg has stood out for its commitment to producing exceptional whisky. Its first commercial release dates back to 1815, the same year as its famous neighbor, Laphroaig. Ardbeg quickly achieved considerable success, notably due to high demand for its whisky in blends. However, the 19th and 20th centuries were marked by difficult periods with changes of ownership and intermittent closures, until its gradual reopening in 1989 and full relaunch in 1997 after acquisition by the Glenmorangie group. Today, the distillery is part of the prestigious French luxury group LVMH, under the management of the Glenmorangie group, ensuring exceptional quality and expertise.
Ardbeg’s production relies on two traditional pot stills, allowing the annual manufacture of about one million liters of alcohol. This whisky is exclusively marketed as a Single Malt, matured mainly in Bourbon casks with a selection of Sherry casks to add complexity and depth. Known for its intensely peaty profile, Ardbeg stands out with a powerful yet balanced smoky character, complemented by spicy and subtly sweet notes, while maintaining a less maritime approach than other Islay whiskies.
This rare 19-year-old edition, named in tribute to the legendary Traigh Bhan beach of Islay, also called Singing Sands by locals, is a concentration of authenticity and emotion. Bottled under exceptional conditions during a global lockdown, this Batch 3 release perfectly illustrates the distillery’s resilience and creativity. It has been carefully aged in American oak casks and Sherry Oloroso, giving it a perfect balance between peaty power, a rich aromatic palette, and finesse on the palate. An essential bottle for discerning enthusiasts and demanding collectors.
Peated (+ 50-55 ppm)
