Ardbeg BizarreBQ Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700ml
Ardbeg is a renowned and revered name in the world of Scotch whisky. Situated on the remote Isle of Islay off the west coast of Scotland, Ardbeg Distillery has been producing exceptional single malt whiskies since 1815. Known for its distinctive peaty and smoky flavour profile, Ardbeg whiskies have gained a loyal following among whisky enthusiasts worldwide. The distillery's location plays a significant role in shaping the character of Ardbeg whiskies. The island's unique terroir, with its peat-rich soil and briny coastal influence, imparts a distinct maritime essence to the whiskies. This, combined with the traditional peat-smoking process, results in an unmistakable smoky aroma and flavour that is synonymous with Ardbeg. Ardbeg offers a diverse range of expressions, each showcasing its own unique characteristics. From the flagship Ardbeg 10 Year Old, with its bold and robust flavors of peat smoke, iodine and citrus, to limited editions and special releases, Ardbeg continuously pushes the boundaries of whisky craftsmanship. The distillery's commitment to traditional production methods and attention to detail is evident in every bottle of Ardbeg. The use of traditional copper pot stills, the carefully selected malted barley and the maturation process in oak casks all contribute to the complexity and depth of flavour found in Ardbeg whiskies. Ardbeg has garnered numerous awards and accolades over the years, solidifying its position as one of the world's leading whisky brands.
Ardbeg lies solitary, in a small cove off the south coast of Islay. Sitting nearby leviathan distilleries; Laphroaig and Lagavulin, Ardbeg has always produced a very sought-after single malt, despite its production scale being less than half that of its neighbours.
Start with a hare-brained idea, you bring together three unique casks, two masters in their own right, and a whole lot of heat and smoke… what do you get? You get the Distillery’s first ever barbecue-inspired whisky – Ardbeg BizarreBQ.
Cooked up by renowned Master Distiller, Dr Bill Lumsden, alongside bona-fide god of the grill, Christian Stevenson (AKA DJ BBQ), this mouth-watering malt packs a meaty, peaty punch. The same way it is with grilling, there’s one vital element in creating Ardbegs first BBQ-inspired malt – fire. Toasting a selection of three casks, double charred oak casks, Pedro Ximénez sherry casks and BBQ casks, this combined recipe comes together to bring a sweet, tangy, smoky flavour… perfect for BBQ!
Ardbeg Bizarre BQ has been matured in a combination of double charred oak casks, Pedro Ximénez sherry casks and unique BBQ casks. Together they ignite a feast of aromas in hickory smoked ham, grilled artichokes, flamed steak and cinnamon dusted espresso.
On the nose there are flavours of charcoal and soot mingle with smoky wood and aromatic herbs and spices, behind toffee, hickory smoked ham and cinnamon-dusted espresso with a little water clearly bold citrus flavours with aromas of fennel and aniseed, then grilled artichokes and some grilled meat - over it all the smell of campfire and grill embers.
The palate is mouth-filling, lively and spicy with notes of spare ribs marinated in chili - lots of smoke and notes from steaks grilled over an open fire, tanned leather and cloves, ginger, anise and tar paired with an aromatic wood smoke note. Powerful and sharp on the finish - long-lasting, with grilled artichoke, black olives and a sooty note that only slowly fades away.
The Finer Details
Style - Whisky
Country - Scotland
Region - Islay
Bottle Size - 700ml
ABV - 50.9%