Ardbeg An Oa. The first new, permanent addition to Ardbeg’s standard range for over a decade. An Oa takes its name from The Oa Mull, a rocky peninsula located in the southwest of Islay. This peninsula serves to protect South Islay (where Port Ellen, Lagavulin and Ardbeg are found) from the worst weather extremes of the North Atlantic.

As such, Ardbeg decided to name this gentler, more approachable whisky after this protective peninsula. Whilst slightly more drinkable than other expressions in the Ardbeg stable, this whisky remains distinctively Ardbeg.

Tasting Note:
Nose: Rounded and subtly smoky (applewood), with creamy toffee, aniseed, treacle and dates. A curious suggestion of juicy fruits, such as peach and banana. With a drop of water, reminders of Ardbeg’s classic fragrance: lime, pine resin, fennel, saddle soap and tar. A gentle waxiness, like fragrant candlewax, and hints of smoked herbs.

Palate: A smooth, creamy texture leads into a huge syrupy sweetness, flavours of milk chocolate, treacle toffee, aniseed, orange and smoky tea leaves. Gentle, sweet spices (nutmeg and cinnamon), some cigar smoke, and a very unusual flavour of grilled artichokes. Long and sweet, with floral overtones, mint toffee and some gentle malty, biscuit notes.

Finish: Lingering, seductive, gentle yet intense, with flavours of aniseed, hickory and distant subtle smoke.

*Note: Packaging may vary