The Ardbeg Whisky Distillery

Ardbeg has been crafting bold, smoky whisky on the Isle of Islay since 1798. By 1815, it was officially producing whisky for commercial sale, quickly becoming a favorite among peat lovers. In the late 19th century, Ardbeg was thriving, with 60 workers producing over 300,000 gallons of whisky each year.

Today, Ardbeg is one of the most celebrated Islay distilleries, known for its intense peat, bold flavors, and innovative releases.

How Ardbeg Whisky is Made

Ardbeg Whisky stands out with its distinct, smoky flavor, thanks to an expert process that starts with locally grown barley. The grain is steeped, germinated, and dried over peat fires, infusing it with a rich, smoky aroma. Once dried, the barley undergoes fermentation in wooden washbacks, which adds character to the spirit. The whisky then distills in traditional copper pot stills, capturing the essence of its unique flavor. After distillation, it matures in a mix of bourbon and sherry casks, allowing the whisky to develop its bold, peaty profile that Ardbeg fans know and love.

Ardbeg’s Finest Bottles

Core Range: The Heart and Soul of Ardbeg

Ardbeg Ten Years Old: Revered single malt

If you're new to Ardbeg, the Ardbeg Ten Years Old is probably the first bottle you’ll want to pick up. Released in 2000, it quickly became a fan favorite. With its signature smoky profile, you’ll taste bold peat smoke, vanilla, citrus, and a hint of spice. For €150 EUR, you can grab the exclusive Ten Tribal Edition at Spiritory. It’s a must-have for any whisky lover!

Ardbeg Wee Beastie: The Monster of a Dram

Now, if you like your whisky a little feistier and bolder, then Ardbeg Wee Beastie is calling your name. Released in 2020, this 5-year-old dram brings intense flavor with a smoky BBQ vibe that lingers long after your first sip. It’s vibrant and punchy—definitely not for the faint of heart. Priced at around €80 EUR, it’s a more affordable Ardbeg option that packs a serious punch!

Ardbeg An Oa: Singularly Rounded

First released in 2017, Ardbeg An Oa is a little less intense than some of Ardbeg’s other expressions, thanks to the fact that it’s finished in French oak casks. That gives it this lovely roundness, with notes of honey, toffee, dark chocolate, and a nice little bit of spice. Priced around €96-100 EUR, it’s not as fiery as the Wee Beastie or as intense as the Ten, but it’s definitely not lacking in flavor.

Ardbeg Uigeadail: The Oldest Whisky

Ardbeg Uigeadail is one of the most beloved expressions in Ardbeg’s entire lineup. First released in 2003, it’s named after the loch (Uigeadail) from which the distillery gets its water, and it’s an absolute beauty. The magic of Uigeadail comes from its cask blend, which mixes bourbon casks and sherry casks. This whisky has both bold smokiness and rich, sweet fruitiness, along with a little bit of spice and chocolate. At around €181-200 EUR, Uigeadail is definitely a splurge, but trust me, every sip is worth it.

Ardbeg Corryvreckan: World's Best Single Malt

If you want something that really makes a statement, Ardbeg Corryvreckan is the option. Released in 2005, Ardbeg Corryvreckan takes its name from the legendary whirlpool off Scotland’s coast. It is one of the strongest expressions Ardbeg has to offer, sitting at 57.1% ABV and priced around €65-70 EUR. That high proof makes it intense and fiery, with bold peat smoke, dark fruits, and spices that give it a real edge. Corryvreckan is for the whisky drinker who likes their dram strong and full of character

Ardbeg 25 Year Old: The Timeless Islay Classic

If you’re looking for something truly special, the Ardbeg 25 Year Old is a must-have. Bottled in 2020, it’s a refined single malt with a delightful complexity. Expect rich smoky notes, balanced by hints of seaweed and green apple. With a 46% ABV, this whisky is priced at €1,230 EUR and is available now on Spiritory.

Limited Editions: Where Ardbeg Gets Experimental

Ardbeg Day Limited Edition: A Popular Choice

This Ardbeg whisky Limited Edition, bottled in 2012, delivers bold peat smoke with a touch of sea salt and rich sweetness. At 56.7% ABV, it’s intense yet perfectly balanced. Widely available and popular in the market, you can get it now on Spiritory for €397 EUR.

### Ardbeg Traigh Bhan 19 Years Old

Ardbeg Traigh Bhan 19 Years Old has a series of Batch 1 to 6. It is a fantastic example of what Ardbeg can do when they let a whisky age and develop complexity. This 19-year-old whisky is rich and elegant, with the usual smoky peat mixed with tropical fruits, vanilla, and a bit of spice. At around €251-305 EUR, this is definitely a bottle for the collector or someone who’s really into finding rare gems.

Ardbeg 14 Years Old 2010 Anthology - The Unicorn’s Tale

The Ardbeg Anthology has two series, The Unicorn’s Tale and Harpy’s Tale. One of the gems in this release was, The Unicorn’s Tale which was released in 2023. This whisky is as magical as the name suggests. It’s got all the usual peat smoke, but this one leans into the sweeter side of things, with notes of fruit, sea salt, and a little bit of brine. Priced at €134-144 EUR, this bottle is a little more on the expensive side, but if you’re looking for something rare and unusual to add to your collection this one's for you.

Ardbeg Vintage Y2K: The Smoky Anomaly

Introduced in 2020, Ardbeg Vintage Y2K was crafted to celebrate the turn of the millennium. This whisky brings out rich vanilla and caramelized oak notes, with a touch of spice and, of course, the signature Ardbeg peat. At around €756 EUR, It’s a whisky that has depth and complexity but still maintains the smokiness that the distillery is known for. You can get this through Spiritory.

Ardbeg Spectacular Limited Edition: A Phenolic Phenomenon

Next on the list, the Ardbeg Spectacular Limited Edition from 2021 is an absolute must-try. This one has a deep, smoky flavor with a sherry finish, which gives it a unique richness and sweetness that balances out the peat smoke. Priced around €139-150 EUR, it’s a beautiful combination of smoke, spice, and sweetness, making it a standout in Ardbeg’s lineup.

Ardbeg Committee Exclusives: The Rare and the Precious

Ardbeg Anamorphic Committee Release

The Ardbeg Anamorphic release from 2022 is a one-of-a-kind whisky that mixes smoky, fruity, and spicy notes. It is one of the bold experiments in cask maturation. It’s complex and intriguing, with layers of flavor that develop as you sip. So, if you're into rare releases that are hard to come by, this one's a treat at around €135 EUR.

Ardbeg 8 Year Old For Discussion: A Peaty Rebel

Ardbeg 8 Years Old is not your typical whisky. It’s bold, youthful, and unapologetically smoky—just the way Ardbeg fans like it. Inspired by the idea of a “raw, more youthful” Ardbeg, this whisky pushes the boundaries with its untamed peat smoke and bold character. This dram was made exclusively for the Ardbeg Committee, and it’s only available online for €105 EUR. It’s raw, fiery, and packed with rich, peppery smoke. But underneath, there’s a surprising balance of citrus, malt, and a hint of sweetness.

Ardbeg Hypernova: A Smoky Explosion

Brace yourself—Ardbeg Hypernova is the smokiest Ardbeg ever created. This limited-edition Committee release takes peat levels to another galaxy, making it one of the most intense drams in the world. At 51.0% ABV, it’s bold, complex, and downright explosive. Priced at €221 EUR, this cosmic dram is a must-try for peat lovers.

Ardbeg Blaaack: The Black Sheep of Islay

Ardbeg Blaaack is a bold tribute to the Ardbeg Committee, crafted from Pinot Noir casks from New Zealand. Ardbeg Blaaack: The Black Sheep of Islay was released in 2020 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Ardbeg Committee. Expect rich fruit pudding, bitter cherry, and deep smoke. This limited-edition dram is now archived, but you can still find it at Spiritory for around €272 EUR.

Ardbeg Dark Cove: The Darkest Ardbeg Ever

Released in 2016 as Ardbeg’s darkest whisky to date,** Dark Cove** was inspired by the illicit smuggling history of Islay. This deep, brooding dram was matured in dark sherry and ex-bourbon casks, creating waves of treacle, coal tar, and smoked ham. Spicy, smoky, and rich, it’s unforgettable. Though archived, you can still find it at Spiritory for around €257 EUR. Keep it hidden—if you can.

Ardbeg Supernova Bottles Range

First launched in 2009 by Dr. Bill Lumsden, Ardbeg Supernova pushed the limits of peatiness. In 2011, Ardbeg sent whisky compounds to the International Space Station (ISS) to study zero-gravity maturation, inspiring the Supernova 2014 release—a bold tribute to whisky’s journey beyond Earth.

The Ardbeg Supernova Bottle Series brings together three unique releases, each a treasure for whisky connoisseurs. Ardbeg Supernova Sn 2019 Committee Release last sale at €330 EUR, delivers a bold, intense flavor with its 53.8% ABV, offering smoky, peaty aromas typical of Islay. Last sale at Spiritory for €249 EUR, 2015 Committee Release stands out with its 54.3% ABV, blending smoky peat with sweet caramel and citrus notes for a smooth, layered taste.

Lastly, the Ardbeg Supernova Advance Committee Release which you can buy at €740 EUR packs a punch with its 58.9% ABV, featuring rich smoke, peat, and citrus, making it a must-have collector's item.

Other Notable Committee Release

Ardbeg Ten Committee Millennium Cask No.17 (2000)

• Price: You can place your bid on Spiritory.

This 10-year-old whisky was among the first Committee Releases, bottled at 46.0% ABV. It showcases Ardbeg’s signature peaty and smoky style, a true classic for collectors.

Ardbeg 1997 Very Young Committee Release (2003)

• Price: €707 EUR

Bottled at 58.9% ABV, this intense whisky was part of the ‘Path to Peaty Maturity’ series. It provided a glimpse into the raw power of the young Ardbeg spirit.

Ardbeg 1998 Renaissance (2004)

• Price: €235 EUR

This 10-year-old single malt at 55.9% ABV celebrated Ardbeg’s full production revival. Its deep peat smoke and rich spice marked a new era for the distillery.

Ardbeg Young Uigeadail Committee Release (2006)

• Price: €1,143 EUR

A high-proof 59.9% ABV whisky, blending maritime salt, peat, and citrus. This release previewed the bold flavors that would define Uigeadail’s legacy.

Ardbeg Corryvreckan Committee Release (2008)

• Price: €807 EUR

At 57.1% ABV, this powerhouse whisky paid tribute to the legendary whirlpool off Islay’s coast. Its intense smokiness and dark fruit notes made it an instant hit.

Ardbeg Rollercoaster Committee Release (2009)

• Price: €420 EUR

A dynamic 57.3% ABV whisky blending multiple vintages from 1997 to 2006. It was a bold experiment, taking fans on a wild flavor journey.

Ardbeg Alligator Committee Release (2011)

• Price: €496 EUR

A 51.2% ABV whisky aged in heavily charred ‘Alligator’ casks for deep smoky intensity. It introduced a new level of charred complexity to Ardbeg’s profile.

Ardbeg Perpetuum Committee Release (2015)

• Price: €242 EUR

Celebrating 200 years of Ardbeg, this 49.2% ABV whisky balanced old and new influences. It blended past and future flavors for a timeless Islay experience.

Ardbeg Grooves Committee Release (2017)

• Price: €198 EUR

Bottled at 51.6% ABV, this Islay gem delivers a bold and complex experience with deep peat, spice, and a touch of sweetness. A must for fans of smoky, intense malts.

Ardbeg Kelpie Committee Release (2017)

• Price: €225 EUR

At 51.7% ABV, this release featured whisky aged in Black Sea oak casks. The unique wood source added maritime complexity to its signature peatiness.

Ardbeg Drum Committee Release (2018)

• Price: €151 EUR

A vibrant 52.0% ABV whisky capturing Islay’s rugged essence. Notes of peat smoke, sea salt, and a touch of sweetness make this a standout in any whisky lineup.

Ardbeg Arrrrrrrdbeg Committee Release (2020)

• Price: €180 EUR

This 51.8% ABV whisky was a farewell tribute to former Distillery Manager Mickey Heads. Its bold character and deep smokiness made it a fitting send-off.

Ardbeg Ardcore Committee Release (2021)

• Price: €126 EUR

A 50.1% ABV release inspired by Islay’s punk rock spirit. It featured dark malt for a smoky, slightly bitter edge unlike any Ardbeg before.

Ardbeg Heavy Vapours Committee Release (2022)

• Price: €125 EUR

At 50.2% ABV, this whisky was distilled without the usual purifier, amplifying its smoky intensity. It delivered a bold, unfiltered take on Ardbeg’s classic style.

Ardbeg 1975 Committee Cask

• Price: €2,689 EUR to €3,227 EUR

These rare releases, ranging from 23 to 31 years old, showcased Ardbeg’s vintage character.

• X-Mas Bottle Cask Nr.1375: This 31-year-old whisky boasts a bold 54.2% ABV with smoky, peaty flavors and a hint of salty sea breeze.

• Ardbeg 1975 Committee Reserve Cask Nr.4718. This offers 23 years of aging with a 46.7% ABV. You can expect a complex aroma of peat smoke and sea notes in both bottles.

The Return of a Legend: Ardbeg 17 Years Old

One of the most iconic releases will be the return of Ardbeg 17 Years Old. Originally retired in 2004, this iconic whisky has made a triumphant return, with Dr. Bill Lumsden at the helm, carefully recreating its timeless flavor. Bottled at 40% ABV, the 17-Year-Old expression stays true to the original, offering fans a taste of nostalgia with every sip. There are two available bottle selections like the Ardbeg 17 Years Old Committee Exclusive 2024 and the original Ardbeg 17 Years Old which you can get for €176-329 EUR at Spiritory.

What is the Most Affordable Ardbeg Whisky?

Looking for the most affordable Ardbeg whisky? We recommend Ardbeg Corryvreckan, which stands out at just €65 EUR in the Spiritory shop. Known for its intense spice and deep peat, it offers fantastic value.

While Ardbeg Wee Beastie is also an affordable option, its price has risen to around €80 EUR. Both offer signature Ardbeg smokiness at great value.

What is the Most Expensive Ardbeg Whisky?

The Ardbeg's most expensive whisky bottle is the Ardbeg 1974 Single Cask #2742, which sold for €35,000 at auction in November 2022. This rare bottle is part of a limited release from a single cask and also available at Spiritory for €44,261 EUR.

Why Is Ardbeg Whisky Worth Collecting?

Collecting Ardbeg whisky can be rewarding for whisky enthusiasts and investors alike. The brand's limited releases and special editions often appreciate in value over time. For instance, Ardbeg's sale of Cask No. 3 for £16 million in 2022 set a new benchmark in the whisky market.

Is Ardbeg One of the Most Awarded Whiskies?

Absolutely! Ardbeg has won countless awards for its bold, smoky flavors. Ardbeg Ten claimed World Whisky of the Year in 2008, while Uigeadail earned the title in 2009 and 2010. In 2013, Ardbeg Galileo was crowned World’s Best Single Malt. Each bottle showcases Ardbeg’s excellence.

Celebrating 25 Years of the Ardbeg Committee

Ardbeg is celebrating 25 years of loyal fans with the release of Eureka!. It will be available from March 4th. This whisky is bold, with PX sherry and bourbon cask influences. The flavors are rich, with dark fruits, nutty toffee, and the signature peat smoke.