Ardbeg An Oa

A little background

The Ardbeg distillery is located on the most southerly part of Islay, exposing it to extreme conditions with heavy wind and driving rain. If not for the Mull of Oa, the conditions would be even worse. Ardbeg An Oa shares its name with the peninsula that gives it protection from the mighty force of the Atlantic. This whisky was the first permanent core addition to the Ardbeg portfolio after years of it only including 10 Year Old, Uigeadail, and Corryvreckan. Ardbeg An Oa has spent time in Pedro Ximenez, virgin charred oak; and ex-bourbon casks, before being blended together in Ardbeg’s newly established bespoke oak Gathering Vat. This whisky is not age stated and is bottled at 46.6% ABV without chill filtration. You can expect to pay around $60 USD for a bottle of Ardbeg An Oa.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Light Gold

Nose

Peaches, vanilla extract, sweet lemon icing, dried leaves, and of course, peaty smoke.

Palate

Butterscotch, honey, vanilla, brown sugar, charcoal, light milk chocolate, and heavy peat. Overall, the mouthfeel is a bit thin.

Finish

An enjoyably long finish with notes of cloves vanilla, honey, chocolate, and a dry woodiness.

In closing

Overall, a pleasant peaty single malt that’s got great depth and complexity. Although a tad thin on the palate, the finish really brings An Oa to life. Without shock, this Single Malt is a classic Ardbeg peaty smoke bomb that’s nothing short of delicious. A must buy and a wonderful price point.

NOTE: The sample used for this review was provided at no cost courtesy of Ardbeg Distillery. We thank them for the sample and for allowing us to review it with no strings attached.