Ardbeg has unveiled Heavy Vapours as its limited-edition 2023 Feis Ile release. The single malt Scotch whisky was distilled without a purifier, the apparatus responsible for balancing the brand’s blend of extreme peat and floral fruitiness.
“A missing purifier is unprecedented for Ardbeg,” commented Director of whisky creation Dr Bill Lumsden. This experiment was something I’ve always imagined trying – what would happen to the flavor and character of Ardbeg as we know and love it, by distilling in this unique way? Well, it’s now time for Ardbeg fans to find out; this is a full-blown dram where Ardbeg’s exalted balance has been disrupted in the most fantastic of ways – a truly captivating dram.”
According to Bill, the removal of the purifier allowed the “heaviest and untamed vapors” to rise during the distillation process, before being captured, matured, and bottled. The nose features smokey sweet aromas, leading to a palate of bittersweet flavors, including coal dust, peppermint, cardamom, and dark chocolate.
The release of Ardbeg Heavy Vapours is timed to to mark Fèis Ìle, the annual Islay music and malt festival–which takes place May 26 to June 3–and Ardbeg day, which is always held on the final Saturday of the event (June 3).
“The time has almost come again where we call on Ardbeg fans and whisky lovers across the world to celebrate Planet Ardbeg Day with us, be that on Islay at the distillery or at one of our events around the world,” said Ardbeg distillery manager Colin Gordon. “Our 2023 theme will be a celebration of our Planet Ardbeg graphic novel universe, where we’ll be uncovering the mysteries behind our latest limited edition release, Ardbeg Heavy Vapours. We can’t wait to celebrate this iconic date in the whisky calendar with our global community again soon.”
For those who can’t make it on the day, Lumsden will be hosting an Ardbeg Heavy Vapours masterclass on the brand’s official website.
Ardbeg Heavy Vapours will be available to buy worldwide from Ardbeg Embassies, whisky specialists, online retailers, and the distillery visitor center for £120 ($150 USD).
Late last month, the distillery unveiled Ardbeg BizarreBQ, the distillery’s first-ever limited-edition barbecue-inspired whisky.