Ardbeg

Established in 1815 by John McDougall, Ardbeg Distillery sits proudly on the Isle of Islay, a haven for smoky, peated single malt Scotch whisky beloved by enthusiasts. The distillery weathered a rollercoaster history of closures and revivals, ultimately finding renewed success after Glenmorangie Co acquired it in 1997. Now flourishing under Moet Hennessy, Ardbeg continues its legacy of bold, complex whiskies.

While whisky production at Ardbeg began in 1798, its focus was initially on blended whiskies, a common practice for Scottish distilleries. By the late 19th century, Ardbeg was a major producer. Despite temporary closures, the distillery was revitalized in the late 1990s. Ardbeg's dedication to its signature Islay style has earned it a loyal following and, in 2022, led to a record-breaking £16 million sale of a rare 1975 cask.