Ardbeg Scorch (bottled 2021), 46%

Introduction

Ardbeg Scorch is a boldly experimental Limited Edition release crafted to celebrate Ardbeg Day 2021, featuring whisky matured in the fiercest charred American oak casks ever used by this iconic Islay distillery.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Scottish malted barley with a high phenol content, giving Ardbeg its signature smokiness, and pure spring water from the hills above the distillery
• Distillation process: Double distilled in traditional copper pot stills with a unique purifier that contributes to Ardbeg’s distinctive character
• Maturation: Aged in heavily charred (or “dragon-charred”) ex-bourbon American oak casks, which intensify the whisky’s smoky profile while adding deep caramelized flavors
• Special techniques: Non-chill filtered and bottled at 46% ABV to preserve the full range of flavors and aromas

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Intense aromas of grilled meat and charred wood, mingling with medicinal smoke, sea spray, and hints of aniseed and eucalyptus
• Palate: Explosive flavors of smoky barbecue, black pepper, and soot, followed by sweet vanilla cream, maple-glazed bacon, and salted caramel
• Finish: Long, warming finish with waves of peat smoke, scorched oak, licorice, and a distinctive maritime salinity that lingers pleasantly

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (16-18°C) for optimal flavor development
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass or Glencairn to concentrate the complex aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of spring water to open up the intense flavors
• Food pairings: Grilled or smoked meats, strong blue cheeses, dark chocolate with sea salt, or oysters

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 46% ABV
• Bottle size: 700ml/750ml (market dependent)
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Islay
• Certifications/Awards: 92 points from Whisky Advocate, Gold Medal at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Ardbeg Scorch represents the pinnacle of experimental cask maturation, offering an intensity of flavor rarely encountered even among robust Islay whiskies.

As a Limited Edition 2021 release, supplies of this distinctive expression are strictly finite and increasingly difficult to obtain as collectors secure their bottles.

Created by Dr. Bill Lumsden, Ardbeg’s Director of Distilling and a multiple award-winning master of whisky innovation, Scorch exemplifies the distillery’s commitment to pushing boundaries while honoring tradition.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Enthusiasts and critics alike have embraced Scorch’s bold profile, with many Ardbeg Committee members declaring it among the most memorable limited releases from the distillery.

Collectors who have committed to acquiring each annual Ardbeg special release recognize Scorch as a particularly significant addition to any comprehensive collection.

The gold medal at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition confirms what Ardbeg enthusiasts already knew – that Scorch delivers an exceptional and distinctive drinking experience.

From Islay’s Shores to You

Each bottle of Ardbeg Scorch offers a gesture of hospitality from the tight-knit community of craftspeople who maintain Ardbeg’s time-honored distilling traditions.

The dragon-themed design and storytelling capture the playful, creative spirit that makes Ardbeg one of the most beloved and personable of Scotland’s historic distilleries.

By experiencing Ardbeg Scorch, you join a global fellowship of peat enthusiasts who celebrate the distinctive character of this legendary distillery; secure your bottle today to be part of this extraordinary whisky adventure.