Ardbeg Trudernish: First Permanent 15-Year-Old Unveiled

What makes Ardbeg's first-ever permanent 15-year-old so special? Meet Trudernish, the Double Gold-winning Islay malt named after an enchanted, never-freezing well.
Follow The Whiskey Wash on Google News

Follow The Whiskey Wash on Google News to get our latest reviews and guides delivered straight to your feed.

Like Conversation
reading time

Ardbeg Trudernish: First Permanent 15-Year-Old Unveiled

Ardbeg has launched Trudernish, its first permanent 15-year-old expression, alongside a redesigned look for its entire core range. The Islay single malt Scotch whisky, matured in bourbon, new charred oak and Oloroso sherry casks, goes on sale from September 15, 2026, priced at £80 ($108).

The expression has already earned a Double Gold award at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2026.

The whisky takes its name from the ancient settlement of Trudernish on Islay’s “Enchanted Cape.” According to local legend, the pure water of the well at Trudernish never freezes over.

Quick whisky question

Single malt is everywhere, but what does it mean? We want to know what the word “single” means to you. Three quick questions, under a minute.

Which stages must take place at the same distillery for a whisky to be called “single malt”?

Tick as many as you like

or

Must the barley in a single malt be grown in the same country the whisky is made in?

How would you describe your whisky knowledge?

Bottled at 48.8% ABV, Trudernish combines Ardbeg’s signature smoke with creamier, softer flavors developed over its 15 years of maturation.

Its release coincides with a redesign of Ardbeg’s entire core range, which will roll out globally from autumn 2026.

The new presentation boxes and labels retain Ardbeg’s classic black, with each expression differentiated by an earthy accent color.

What Will Whisky Look Like in 2027? Voices from Whisky Live Paris

READ THE STORY

Woodcut-style illustrations depict each whisky’s story, cask recipe and flavor snapshot, in a nod to Ardbeg’s Celtic heritage.

Dr Bill Lumsden MBE, Ardbeg’s director of whisky creation, said: “A new whisky is always a momentous occasion at Ardbeg – and our first permanent 15-year-old, Ardbeg Trudernish, is truly one to celebrate.”

He added: “Aged in a combination of bourbon, new charred oak and Oloroso sherry casks, our spirit’s signature smokiness is brilliantly mellowed by rich, creamy flavours, softened with age.”

Lumsden continued: “You’ll find aromas of peat and woodsmoke engulfed in melted vanilla ice cream. There are tastes of peat, dark liquorice and nuts wrapped in milk chocolate and a long smoky finish. A silky thread of vanilla runs throughout. I guarantee this whisky’s take on Ardbeg’s peaty paradox will charm smoky malt lovers everywhere.”

Bryony McNiven, Ardbeg distillery manager, said: “Ardbeg Trudernish is the perfect dram to toast Ardbeg’s new look.”

She added: “These striking new designs will make it easier than ever to explore each one – and perhaps discover new favourites… such as Ardbeg Trudernish!”

According to the official notes from the brand, Trudernish shows a straw gold color, with aromas of earthy peat, gentle woodsmoke and rich vanilla cream, plus orchard fruits and cracked black pepper. The palate is creamy and full-bodied, leading to a long, smoky finish.

Trudernish is available from Ardbeg.com, Ardbeg Embassies, the distillery visitor center and specialist retailers.

Mark Littler

Mark Littler is the owner and editor in chief of the Whiskey Wash. He is also the owner of Mark Littler LTD, a prominent whisky and antiques brokerage service in the United Kingdom. Mark is a well known voice in the whisky industry and has a regular column at Forbes.com and has a popular YouTube channel devoted to everything whisky.

Mark completed the purchase of The Whiskey Wash in late 2023.

All Posts