Ardbeg Is Grillin’ And Distillin’ With New BBQ-Inspired Whisky

by Gary Carter
March 31, 2023

Islay whisky maker Ardbeg recently introduced BizarreBQ, the distillery’s first barbecue-inspired whisky.

The experimental new expression was cooked up by Dr. Bill Lumsden, Ardbeg’s director of whisky creation. In a prepared statement, he explained that this whisky captures and complements the flavors of smoky barbecue.

Grilling master Christian Stevenson, also known as DJ BBQ, helped create the unique flavor concept for the expression, which Ardbeg describes as a meaty, peaty punch. The limited-edition whisky clocks in at 50.9% ABV.

The statement from Ardbeg notes that the distiller uses an experimental cask toasting process where the recipe for Ardbeg BizarreBQ is made up of double-charred oak casks, Pedro Ximénez sherry casks and the distillery’s unique BBQ casks that have been extra-charred on an old-fashioned brazier.

“Ardbeg BizarreBQ is certainly a hare-brained idea, but with DJ BBQ’s help, I was able to cook up something truly incredible,” Lumsden said. “Puffs of charcoal and soot mingle with smoky wood and aromatic herbs and spices. The undeniable smell of bonfire and BBQ embers linger in the background. Deep, warming smoke follows in flame-grilled steak, chili oil, cured leather and clove. If there’s one Ardbeg you want with you by the grill, it’s this one.”

Stevenson said that barbecue lovers and Ardbeg lovers are one and the same. “It’s all about the smoke, which is something Ardbeg BizarreBQ has in spades. I’ve been on a mission to create and perfect a variety of BBQ dishes, and Ardbeg has honored the fundamental laws of smoke, wood and heat for some time.”

Videos on the Ardbeg website also offer enthusiasts a chance to watch what happened when DJ BBQ joined Dr. Bill at Ardbeg Distillery on Islay to lend a hand in creating the new, smoky single malt.

Ardbeg BizarreBQ Limited Edition will be available initially from the Ardbeg Distillery Visitor Center on Islay and in Germany starting April 3rd. It will launch in global markets later this year and in the UK in June, and will be available from Ardbeg Embassies, whisky specialists, online retailers and from the Distillery Visitor Centre. It has a suggested retail price of £75.