Ardbeg’s New Scorch Whisky Aged In Heavily Charred Casks

Ardbeg Distillery recently unveiled its new limited release in honor of Ardbeg Day this summer.

Matured in ex-bourbon American oak casks and heavily charred, Ardbeg Scorch (46% ABV) is said by the brand to give off aromas of soot and smoke while grilled fare and black licorice mingle with bold notes of medicinal lozenge.

“Ardbeg Scorch is our tribute to the legendary dragon of Islay,” Ardbeg’s Director of Distilling and Whisky Creation Dr. Bill Lumsden said in a prepred statement. “By using our most heavily-charred casks, we’ve created a fire-breathing beast of a dram!”

The celebration of Ardbeg Day is held annually on the final Saturday of Islay’s Festival of Music and Malt and stands as a celebration of all things Ardbeg. This year the celebration is set to be entirely online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This will be the second year the festival has been virtual.

“This year will be my first Ardbeg Day ever: a baptism of fire! It’s a shame we Ardbeggians can’t enjoy it together in person, but the online event is shaping up to be tremendous fun,” Ardbeg’s Distillery Manager Colin Gordon said. “With a whole virtual world to explore, including fantasy inns, campfire tales, medieval feasts and live tastings, there’s plenty for people to be excited about this year.”

The Committee Release of Ardbeg Scorch will be available to buy from Ardbeg Embassies, whisky specialists, online retailers and from the Distillery Visitor Center on May 1 for $139. The General Release will be available on June 1 at a price point of around $120. Official tasting notes can be found below.

• Color – Bright brushed gold
• Nose – On the nose, frighteningly intense aromas of soot and smoke lie in wait. Hints of aniseed and fragrant patchouli interlace with bold notes of quenched steel and saddle soap. With a drop of water, herbal top notes of briarwood, sage and pine wisp their way to the fore.
• Taste – Take a sip and experience layer upon layer of flavor. An oily mouthfeel grips the senses. Billowy clouds of sweet smoke and dragon charred oak permeate the palate, while grilled fare and black licorice weave between notes of medicinal lozenge.
• Finish – A long and heroic finale, with a subtle tarry aftertaste. A finish that will drag on, well into its happily ever after.