LITTLEMILL UNVEILS NEW ECHOES OF THE PAST COLLECTION OF RARE WHISKIES WITH RELEASE OF FIRST EDITION

Scotland’s oldest licensed distillery, Littlemill has revealed the opening release in a remarkable new collection of rare single malt Scotch whiskies, showcasing some of the final chapters from the lost distillery.

Littlemill Echoes of the Past Release Number One is an exceptional 34-year-old single malt which marks the inaugural expression in a new four-part annual series, offering whisky connoisseurs and collectors the chance to experience the evolving maturation of a single Littlemill cask over time.

To create the collection, the final custodians of Littlemill will draw just 50 bottles of precious spirit each year from a single maturing Oloroso sherry cask for four consecutive years. The remaining spirit will be left to age further, deepening in flavour and complexity, with each subsequent release revealing the developing journey of this cask as the spirit draws even more character from its Oloroso finishing.

The cask selected for Echoes of the Past was distilled in 1990, during Littlemill’s final production years, initially laid down in a refill American oak hogshead for 25 years, before being recasked into a single Oloroso sherry barrel in 2015.

Littlemill’s final guardian, Master Blender Michael Henry selected the optimum moment to bottle the first release, resulting in an exceptional 34-year-old single malt which displays the perfect harmony of Littlemill’s distinctive summertime fruit character with classic sweet floral spice and sherried notes.

This extraordinarily rare echo of the past brings floral notes of rose petals and elderflower with dried apricot, kiwi and peach to the nose, a silk-like mouthfeel of melted brown sugar, honeysuckle and ginger spice with citrus peel on the palate, finishing with long layers of sweet citrus fruits.

Littlemill Echoes of the Past Release Number One is presented in a beautiful solid oak display cabinet which features expertly curved, elegant facets, making it a striking addition to any collection. Inside, a stone interior adorned with a message from Michael Henry is revealed, paying tribute to Littlemill’s legacy as the cornerstone of the whisky industry.

The whisky is encased within an individually numbered Glencairn decanter with intricate engraving depicting the details of the single malt. Each cabinet also houses a 50ml miniature and a certificate of ownership so the very fortunate few recipients of this exceptional single malt can experience a taste of Littlemill’s past.

Founded in 1772 in Bowling, West Dunbartonshire, Littlemill was at the forefront of innovation for its time. It closed in 1994, before being lost to a fire in 2004. Since then, Master Blender, Michael Henry has held guardianship of the last remaining casks. 

Michael Henry, Master Blender at Loch Lomond Group, owner of Littlemill, said: “Each sip of Littlemill presents a remarkable opportunity to experience a taste of the distillery’s history and opens a window to its extraordinary past.  The Echoes of the Past Collection offers a new and unique opportunity for whisky connoisseurs to take a different kind of journey back to the final years of the distillery’s production, allowing them to experience an Oloroso finishing on a Littlemill malt at different ages.

“Though Littlemill distillery is lost to history, this cask carries its legacy forward, evolving with time. To witness its continuing journey of maturation and flavour over four releases is to glimpse a past that still lives on.

“Littlemill Echoes of the Past Release Number One is a 34-year-old single malt which has rewarded us with the discovery of a new flavour dimension that enhances the distillery’s character, resulting in a wonderfully sweet, citrus and softly spicy dram.”

Nick Bradley, Prestige Portfolio Manager at Loch Lomond Group, owner of Littlemill, added:

“Incredibly, Littlemill’s story began back in 1772 as Scotland’s first licensed distillery, but with such finite and limited reserves remaining today, releasing a cask such as Echoes of the Past marks a special moment in the distillery’s history. 

“Each and every Littlemill cask provides a snapshot of history and when considering the creation of this collection, we wanted to offer travellers a special opportunity to experience these moments in time. This exceptional release offers the chance to follow a rare Littlemill cask on the final years of its journey. Like an echo, it changes with every repetition, eventually disappearing altogether.

“Littlemill Echoes of the Past Release Number One showcases the beauty of this single malt, which with the right cask management, as well as patience and time, has allowed this exquisite cask the chance to reach its full potential. It is a testament to Michael Henry, who through his exceptional craftsmanship and unrivalled knowledge and understanding of the nature of the spirit, has honed it into something truly remarkable today.”

Released exclusively for select travel retail locations around the world, Littlemill Echoes of the Past Release Number One was bottled at a cask strength of 48.5% and is natural in colour. Each individually numbered decanter has an RRP of £3,900. For support on where to purchase enquire via www.littlemilldistillery.com.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Floral rose petals, elderflower, dried apricot, kiwi and peach.
• Palate: Silklike mouthfeel, melted brown sugar, honeysuckle, vanilla fudge, lime juice, cinnamon and ginger spice with citrus peel.
• Finish: Long with sweet vanilla, grapefruit and caramelised sugar, dried fruit and citrus.

About Littlemill

The Littlemill distillery was established in 1772 on the site of an old brewery that had been founded during the 14th century in Bowling on the banks of the River Clyde near Glasgow.

It is rumoured that illicit distilling had taken place there since 1750 when the site was bought by George Buchanan, a malt master, and according to the renowned whisky historian and writer Misako Udo in her book ‘The Scotch Whisky Distilleries’, distilling may have taken place there for centuries before.

After one year, on the 2nd of November 1773, local Justice of the Peace records for Dumbarton show that ‘Robert Muir of Littlemiln’, an employee, was granted the first-ever license by the Government of King George III to “…retail ale, beer and other excisable Liquors”, thus making Littlemill Scotland’s first and oldest licensed distillery.

In 1931 Littlemill led whisky still innovation whereby its innovative design could create three styles of spirit under the stewardship of the American Duncan Thomas, including the light fruit-forward triple-distilled character Littlemill is most known for today. It was these stills that inspired the stills that remain in place at Loch Lomond Distillery today.

Littlemill fell into perpetual silence in 1994 and then the distillery was destroyed by fire in 2004. The remaining casks have since been under the care of Loch Lomond Distillery, stored just a short distance from where the original distillery once stood. In 2015 Loch Lomond Group released a limited number of its Littlemill Private Cellar Edition. Since then, a mere handful of bottles have been released annually, which have become sought after by collectors and whisky enthusiasts around the world.

Twitter: @LittlemillMalt

Instagram: @LittlemillMalt

Facebook: @Littlemillwhisky

https://www.littlemilldistillery.com/

Run to You… with whisky: Loch Lomond Whiskies delivers bespoke gift to Bryan Adams

Loch Lomond Whiskies has gifted a bespoke pack of its award-winning single malt whisky to Canadian star Bryan Adams – after the singer-songwriter said back in March that he loves the smell of Scotland’s national drink.

The independent distiller shared three iconic drams and a copita glass with the ‘Run To You’ hitmaker ahead of his headline performance at the OVO Hydro in Glasgow this week (Tuesday 13 May), part of the UK leg of his Roll with the Punches 2025 arena tour.

Each whisky in the pack – Loch Lomond Original, Loch Lomond 12 Year Old Perfectly Balanced, and Loch Lomond 18 Year Old – offer notes of fruit, honey and soft smoke on the nose, scents perfect to savour ahead of performing in front of thousands of fans.

Darroch Ramsay, senior global brand manager at Loch Lomond Whiskies, said:

“As superfans of Bryan Adams, it felt only right to offer him a small gift from Scotland during his time in Glasgow. Nosing our single malt is a fantastic introduction to the craftsmanship and character that has made Loch Lomond Whiskies one of the world’s most acclaimed single malts. Our signature straight-neck stills make us one of the most adept distilleries in Scotland, with our innovation also extending to bespoke whisky nosing boxes – this one developed exclusively for Bryan.”

To find out more about Loch Lomond Whiskies, visit: www.lochlomondwhiskies.com.

About Loch Lomond Whiskies

Loch Lomond Whiskies is an award-winning, independent Scotch whisky distiller which has been producing the finest single malt whiskies since 1814.  As a Highland malt, it is part of the largest and most diverse whisky-making region in Scotland.

The original site of the Loch Lomond Distillery was established near Tarbert, towards the northwest end of Loch Lomond. In the 1960s, under the leadership of American entrepreneur and chemist, Duncan Scott (who was instrumental in the ongoing success of Scotland’s oldest licensed distillery, Littlemill), a new site was created in Alexandria, which began a move to a more innovative philosophy and style of whisky-making that is still used today.

Located only a few miles from the famous loch, the distillery has a whisky-making capability like no other, using a combination of traditional swan-neck and its signature straight-neck-stills, which are unique to Loch Lomond Whiskies.

The straight-neck stills give Master Blender Michael Henry greater control over the distillation process, allowing him to carefully manipulate the flavour profile of each whisky, and providing a signature fruit, honey and soft smoke flavour profile.

Loch Lomond Whiskies is one of only four distiller’s in Scotland to have its own onsite cooperage, ensuring that barrel repairs and charring are carried out to an exacting standard, so every cask is perfect for maturing whisky.

The distillery’s multi-award-winning range includes Loch Lomond Original; Loch Lomond 12 Year Old; Loch Lomond 12 Year Old; Loch Lomond Inchmoan 12 Year Old; Loch Lomond Inchmurrin 12 Year Old; Loch Lomond 18 Year Old; Loch Lomond 21 Year Old and Loch Lomond 30 Year Old, as well as Loch Lomond Single Grain (peated and unpeated) and the deluxe blend Loch Lomond Signature.

In 2023, it was recognised as the ‘Most Awarded Distillery’ at the globally renowned San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2023, achieving multiple Double Gold and Gold Awards for its collection of malt whisky brands.

Last year, Loch Lomond 18 Year Old was revealed as The Whisky Exchanges’ coveted ‘Whisky of the Year 2024’, achieving superior scores from the judging panel for its full-bodied and fruity character.

Are you going to Whiskey Live in Dublin this weekend?

If so, we will see you there, same stand as last year!

As a heads up for those going, and those that are not, we will have an exclusive bottling for Whiskey Live – Celtic Whiskey Shop & Wines on the Green Exclusive Barántúil Bottling.

So what is this wonderful drop that we have for Whiskey Live Dublin 2025?

It’s a 3 Year Old Single Pot Still that has been full term in a PX Sherry Cask. This single cask expression encourages a marriage of drier Pot Still Spirit spice with the drier European Oak spices. These are wonderfully balanced with the thick sweet notes of the PX Sherry maturation.

As always, cask strength, non chill filtered, no colouring  just banging flavour from the spirit and the cask.

The bottles are exclusive to Whiskey Live and all are purchased through the CWS shop at the show. As we are not policing the shop there is no limit per person, but there are less than 170 available at a generous price for the show of €115.00 (RRP €130).

We look forward to seeing you all at Dublin Whiskey Live and if you can’t go get a friend going to pick up a bottle for you!! 😉

Sláinte

The Killowen Distillery Team

ANGEL’S ENVY ® Releases Newest Cellar Collection Series, Vol. 5 Straight Rye Whiskey Finished in French Oak Extra Añejo Tequila Barrels

The brand’s first Cellar Collection release under Master Distiller Owen Martin Available nationwide on May 31

ANGEL’S ENVY announces the launch of its newest Cellar Collection Series, Vol. 5 Straight Rye Whiskey Finished in French Oak Extra Añejo Tequila Barrels. For the first time ever, an expression in the series will be available nationwide on May 31. This remarkable release is a bold expression by Master Distiller Owen Martin that honors the brand’s legacy while pushing the boundaries of bourbon making.

To create the Vol. 5, Straight Rye Whiskey aged up to 7 years was finished in French Oak Extra Añejo tequila barrels for up to 12 months, then blended with an older Straight Rye Whiskey, aged for over 11 years, to lock the entire flavor profile together into a cohesive, yet layered experience. Martin traveled to Hacienda PATRÓN, the home of PATRÓN Tequila’s distillery in Jalisco, Mexico to select the barrels, immersing himself in the world of tequila making.

“This launch is very special to me as the first Cellar Collection innovation for ANGEL’S ENVY that I oversaw from beginning to end. As a part of the vision, we collaborated with PATRÓN Tequila’s Master Distiller, David Rodriguez, to identify a parallel between the production processes. We are always striving to showcase the unique character of a finishing cask and how it can amplify our base whiskey’s dynamic flavor – this release embodies that particularly well,” said Owen Martin, Master Distiller.

A golden caramel color, the new Cellar Collection expression is floral and fruit-forward on the nose, with a toasty vanilla and subtle clove smokiness. Flavors of baking spices and cracked pepper are tempered by notes of herbal agave for an earthy tobacco and brown sugar taste. The French oak finish ensures the liquid is soft and balanced, with orange blossom honey and tropical fruits.

Cellar Collection Series Vol. 5 Straight Rye Whiskey Finished in French Oak Extra Añejo Tequila Barrels is housed in a special-edition gift box, featuring a number of symbols, including the agave plant, reflecting the innovative union of flavors and ANGEL’S ENVY’s continued pursuit of excellence. It will be available at retailers nationwide and on ReserveBar (where eligible) for an SRP of $269.99 per 750ml bottle. Additionally, 500Main members can enter a lottery launching today, for a chance to purchase a bottle for in-person pick-up at the Distillery on May 31.

For more information and purchasing details, visit https://angelsenvy.com or on Instagram, @angelsenvy.

Gold-Medal Cask Strength Bourbon Bargain
New England Barrel Co. 3.5 Year Old “Cask Strength” Small Batch Select: Batch #2022-01 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 

“Young, energetic, and flat-out delicious, it’s hands-down the best deal in the shop right now”— David Othenin-Girard, K&L Spirits Buyer

We have no right to be selling this whiskey at such a low price, and, equally, this humble whiskey has no right to be as good as it is. This award-winning young whiskey is never seen for less than $60 in California. At full cask strength and without chill filtration, it’s a powerful, heady bourbon of the highest order. Having won a Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, it’s clear that we’ve secured an incredible price that won’t be matched anywhere in the country. Don’t be fooled—this isn’t the 99-proof version, but the highly awarded and much more expensive cask-strength release. K&L offers this exclusive price, unavailable anywhere else in the country.

–David Othenin-Girard, K&L Spirits Buyer

New England Barrel Co. 3.5 Year Old “Cask Strength” Small Batch Select: Batch #2022-01Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml) (Previously $60) ($22.99)

As one of the few truly transparent independent bottlers, the team at New England Barrel Co. consistently assembles stellar spirits. Thanks to a fortuitous shift in market conditions, we secured this exceptional batch of young Kentucky Straight Bourbon for well below its usual wholesale price. I’m thrilled to pass those savings on—what was already a fair $60 bottle now becomes an absolute steal and an easy slam-dunk for a high-proof Tuesday-night pour.

It’s the quintessential “bunker buy.” Need a robust Kentucky Bourbon for cocktails but don’t want to raid your precious Green River Cask Strength Single Barrels? This bottle has you covered. I’m stocking up before it disappears; it handles every gifting and giveaway need with ease.

The whiskey shows a gorgeous tawny hue (≈ 1.4 on the color scale). The nose bursts with burnt sugar, cherry compote, citrus oil, and fresh biscuits, opening to layers of baking spice, almond butter, apricot, and brown sugar. On the palate it’s oily, full-bodied, and remarkably gentle for full cask strength; the choice to skip chill-filtration clearly pays off in texture. Sweet corn and fruit drive through the mid-palate, finishing with a soft, satisfying spice.

Despite its youth, this bourbon never shows a rough edge—proof that well-made whiskey doesn’t always need decades in wood. Young, energetic, and flat-out delicious, it’s hands-down the best deal in the shop right now.

Email: wine@klwines.com
Phone: (877) KL-WINES (Toll Free 877.559.4637)
K&L Wine Merchants 3005 El Camino Real Redwood City, CA 94061 USA
San Francisco, Redwood City, Hollywood CA

Graham Eunson announces retirement from Tomatin Distillery leaving remarkable legacy

Tomatin releases limited edition single malt whisky to celebrate Graham’s contribution

Graham Eunson, Master Distiller and Distillery Operations Director at Tomatin, has announced his retirement after 34 years in the whisky industry.

Graham joined Tomatin as Distillery General Manager in 2011, taking up the dual position of Master Distiller and Distillery Operations Director in 2019.

In his outgoing role, Graham is responsible for managing operations across the distillery, warehouse, laboratory, visitor centre and stock control teams, as well as overseeing Tomatin’s maturation process.

Graham carefully watches over more than 156,000 casks each year, including the heritage casks in Warehouse 6 which play an integral part in crafting Tomatin’s oldest and rarest Highland single malt whiskies.

Over the past 14 years, Graham has led the distillery to achieve a series of prestigious award wins, including ‘Scotch Whisky Producer of the Year’ and ‘Outstanding Spirits Producer of the Year’ at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) in 2022. Last year, Tomatin 18 Year Old also secured Double Gold for the third consecutive year at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC), elevating it to Platinum status.

As well as Tomatin 18 Year Old, Graham is responsible for crafting Tomatin’s flagship single malt whisky, Legacy, and experimental lightly-peated single malt Cù Bòcan. He also oversaw the relaunch of The Antiquary in summer 2024, revitalising this historic brand with the release of three exceptional age-statement blended whiskies in bold new packaging.

Graham will remain in post until 30 May, after which date his responsibilities will be shared between Tomatin’s highly experienced team, including Distillery Manager, Jamie Muir, HSQE Director Fiona Birkinshaw, and Blender and Global Brand Ambassador, Scott Adamson.

To celebrate Graham’s remarkable contribution to the Scotch whisky industry, and his enduring legacy at Tomatin Distillery, a limited-edition single malt has been released to commemorate his career.

The coveted Tomatin Legacy Makers – Graham Eunson Edition single malt Scotch whisky is limited to only 514 bottles worldwide.

This extraordinary release is crafted from whisky fully matured in two exceptional casks, each representing a defining chapter in Graham’s career.

The first, a refill hogshead filled in 1990, marks the year Graham first stepped into the whisky industry. The second, a French oak barrique filled in 2011, commemorates the year he brought his expertise to Tomatin Distillery. The two casks work in perfect harmony, showcasing their own unique properties in the resulting single malt.

Bottled at 56.1% ABV and priced at £150 RRSP, Tomatin Legacy Makers – Graham Eunson edition opens with notes of stewed red fruits, apple crumble and strawberries and cream, leading into layers of dried mango, banana and papaya on the palate and a medium, drying yet fruity finish.

Graham Eunson, Master Distiller and Distillery Operations Director at Tomatin, said:

“Tomatin is an exceptional distillery, and my time working here is one of the high points of my career. I joined Tomatin with the idea that we are all just custodians, and with one goal – to leave the distillery in a better place than I found it. Through enhanced systems and improved approaches, there is definitely more consistency now. Our first-class wood policy, which is built on knowing as much as we can about the history of a cask before it is filled, is an example of this.

I’d like to think the legacy I’ve left is a top-notch whisky which can be enjoyed around the world in the future. I’m also proud of the fact that both of my children, Scott and Kirstie, work in the industry as well, which is fantastic to see.”

Scott Adamson, Blender and Global Brand Ambassador at Tomatin, said:

“Working with Graham over the years has been an absolute privilege. His skill, commitment and knowledge are second to none, and he has made a remarkable contribution not only to Tomatin, but to the whisky industry as a whole.

The release of Tomatin Legacy Makers – Graham Eunson edition is a celebration of his life’s work. More than a tribute, this whisky is Graham’s legacy in liquid form. He will be greatly missed at the distillery, and we wish him a long and happy retirement.”

With a proud heritage dating back to the 15th century, Tomatin has been a home for the whisky making team’s dedicated craftsmen and their families since the current distillery was established in 1897.

Tomatin Legacy Makers – Graham Eunson edition is available to purchase now from the distillery website and from select independent whisky retailers.

To purchase a bottle of Tomatin Legacy Makers – Graham Eunson edition, visit https://tomatin.com/shop/limited-releases/graham-eunson-limited-edition/

For more information, visit https://tomatin.com.

Tomatin Legacy Makers – Graham Eunson edition 

Nose: The influence of French oak red wine casks is immediately apparent, with notes of stewed red fruits, apple crumble, and strawberries and cream. The inclusion of lightly peated spirit adds a hint of creosote. Over time, the character of the 1990 cask develops with notes of baking spice, tropical fruits, and light floral aromas. The two casks work in perfect harmony, showcasing their own unique profiles.

Palate: Incredibly deep, though a touch drier than the nose suggests. The mix of peat smoke from the 2011 cask and the rancio-driven influence of the 1990 cask presents an earthy characteristic. From here, layers of dried mango, banana and papaya develop to create an incredibly well-rounded experience.

Finish: Medium in length and drying but with a continued fruity taste.

Notes

Tomatin is located in the Scottish Highlands, 16 miles south of Inverness, and is famous for its portfolio of refined and elegant whiskies.  The distillery has a proud heritage stretching back to the 15th century when illicit production was likely to be taking place, but it wasn’t until 1897 that the first formal distillery was established by John MacDougall as the Tomatin Spey Distillery Company.

In 2022, Tomatin was awarded ‘Scotch Whisky Producer of the Year’ and ‘Outstanding Spirits Producer of the Year’ at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC). Later that year, it was recognised as ‘Sustainable Distillery of the Year’ at Whisky Magazine’s Icons of Whisky 2023, in recognition of its continued contribution to sustainably at the distillery.

In 2023, Tomatin’s success continued when the distillery’s ‘Legacy’ was awarded Gold at IWSC. That same year, Tomatin also took home seven awards at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, while Cù Bòcan, took home three. Tomatin’s 36 Year Old was crowned the ultimate winner at SFWSC for malts, being named ‘Best in Show’, officially making it one of the best whiskies in the world.

Building upon this triumph, 2024 saw Tomatin’s 18 Year Old secured Double Gold for the third consecutive year at the SFWSC, elevating it to Platinum status. Meanwhile, both Tomatin’s 45 Year Old and 12 Year Old, alongside Cù Bòcan’s 15 Year Old took home Double Gold Awards, and Cù Bòcan’s 12 Year Old also secured a prestigious Gold Award.

At the 2024 IWSC Awards, Tomatin Legacy was awarded the IWSC Trophy for no age statement single malt Scotch, demonstrating its exceptional quality as best in class.

This year, Tomatin has been awarded Gold designation for its Tomatin Sherry Collection Ximénez Edition and Silver for both its Sherry Collection Manzanilla Edition and Sherry Collection Palo Cortado Edition in the inaugural 2025 Whiskey Wash Awards.

In 2025, to celebrate outgoing Master Distiller and Distillery Operations Director Graham Eunson’s remarkable contribution to the Scotch whisky industry and his enduring legacy at Tomatin Distillery following his retirement, a limited-edition single malt was released to commemorate his career. Tomatin Legacy Makers – Graham Eunson edition single malt Scotch whisky is crafted from whisky fully matured in two exceptional casks, each representing a defining chapter in Graham’s career, and limited to only 514 bottles worldwide. Graham is one of many Legacy Makers at Tomatin Distillery. Being a Legacy Maker is about more than craftsmanship; it’s about passion, dedication and a commitment to excellence that transcends time. Legacy Makers embody the values of Tomatin, contributing their skills, knowledge, and spirit to shape the future while honouring the traditions of the past. Whether through innovation, mentorship, or community involvement, they ensure that their influence endures, enriching the story of Tomatin for generations to come.

To What Matters’ is the latest chapter in the brand’s evolution; it is a positive call to arms that represents the spiritual DNA of Tomatin – a belief in savouring what is truly important in life and time spent together.

Tomatin is owned by the Japanese company Takara Shuzo International: www.takara-intl.co.jp/en/

NEW ARRIVAL:
JAMESON 23 YEAR OLD

This stunning whiskey has been partly matured in oloroso sherry casks to create a luxurious palate of tropical fruits, subtle spices and warm chocolate brownies. At the heart of this remarkable blend is a fruity core of aged Irish pot still whiskey. Midleton in County Cork is the only distillery in the world with pot still whiskies of this age and maturity, making this limited-edition bottling all the more special. A Jameson blend of this age and quality would make an ideal centrepiece for any collection and an unforgettable gift for any lover of Irish whiskey.

 SHOP NOW 

#Ardbeg #ArdbegDay2025 #ArdbegSmokiverse

 LIMITED EDITION EXPLORES A FRUITY NEW DIMENSION IN TIME FOR ARDBEG DAY

< Distillery’s first “high-gravity” whisky invites Ardbeg fans into the Smokiverse >

Ardbeg Day is a global celebration of all things Ardbeg, held annually on the last Saturday of Islay’s Festival of Music and Malt, Fèis Ìle. Marking 25 years of the Ardbeg Committee, this year’s festivities on Saturday 31^st May are set to be out of this world. At the Distillery and across the globe, Ardbeg will transport smoky malt lovers’ tastebuds to a fruity new dimension, with Ardbeg Smokiverse. This limited edition will be the Islay Distillery’s first whisky crafted from a high-gravity mash, resulting in a distinctly vibrant, tropical and fruity spirit.

Ardbeg’s Whisky Creation Team began experimenting some years ago with the mashing process, in which malted barley is converted into fermentable sugars. One of their experiments involved reducing the amount of water used in the packed mash tun. This unconventional “high-gravity” mash magnified the intensity of flavour-active compounds known as acetate esters, leading to a fruitier, more tropical spirit. Aged in bourbon casks, this Ardbeg whisky unveils layers of muscovado sugar, ripe barley, and toasted sourdough bread, all culminating in a burst of ripe tropical fruits and sweet peat.

Dr Bill Lumsden MBE, Ardbeg’s Director of Whisky Creation, said: “The first whisky we have ever made with a high-gravity mash, Ardbeg Smokiverse takes our single malt’s classic peaty character to a new frontier of flavour. By ramping up the density of our wort to new heights, we’ve drawn in fruitier, sweeter flavours from the deepest corners of the mash tun. Upon first sip, you can expect a vibrant burst of fruity, ester notes, rather like smoked bubblegum, along with aromas of barley. Then peaty notes collide with juicy, tropical fruits, before sinking into a rich depth of muscovado sugar.”

Inspired by this high-gravity mash, the Distillery will bring to life a space-inspired universe on Ardbeg Day. Committee Members and their smoky-malt-loving friends can experience the delights of high gravity in the Smokiverse: a place filled with cosmic games, space-themed cocktails, whisky tastings and smoky bites.

Jackie Thomson, Ardbeg Distillery Visitor Centre Manager and Ardbeg Committee Chair, said: “We’re inviting whisky fans from all corners of the world to join us – both at the Distillery, the beating heart of the Smokiverse, and beyond – to celebrate Ardbeg Day. We’re thrilled to share this whisky with smoky-malt lovers everywhere and send their tastebuds into overdrive with the release of this extraordinary new expression.”

Ardbeg Smokiverse will be available to buy exclusively from Ardbeg.com and Ardbeg embassies from 28^th – 30^th May, and will then be available from 31^st May via other whisky specialists and online retailers, RRP: £93.

For more news on Ardbeg Day 2025 and all things Ardbeg, smoky malt whisky fans can join the Ardbeg Committee at ardbeg.com/en-gb/committee

www.ardbeg.com

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Ardbeg Smokiverse Tasting Notes:

ABV:      48.3%

Colour: Bright Gold

Aroma: A burst of fruity, ester notes, almost like smoked bubblegum, along with a beautiful aroma of ripening barley and toasted sourdough bread. With water, more of the smoke notes appear, but in this instance the peat smoke is very sweet and aromatic, almost reminiscent of juicy tropical fruits which have been gently smoked.

Taste:    A rich, creamy texture is followed by some sharp sooty and spicy notes, like tar, creosote, aniseed and clove, but these are tempered with a distinctive sweetness, like muscovado sugar. There are some structured, woody notes, like sweet oak and leather.

Finish: Some earthy peat moss, bonfire embers and charcoal. 

RRP: £93

Ardbeg

Ardbeg prides itself on being The Ultimate Islay Malt Whisky. Established in 1815, Ardbeg is revered by connoisseurs around the world as the peatiest, smokiest and most complex of all the Islay malts. Despite its smokiness, Ardbeg is renowned for its delicious sweetness, a phenomenon that has affectionately become known as ‘the peaty paradox’. During the 1980s and 1990s, Ardbeg suffered from an uncertain future, and it was not until the brand was purchased by The Glenmorangie Company in 1997 that the Distillery was saved from extinction. Since then, the Distillery has risen like a phoenix and today Ardbeg is well-established as a niche, cult malt, with a passionate following. Today, Ardbeg is one of the world’s most highly awarded smoky single malt whiskies. 

The Ardbeg Committee

The legacy of the whisky was safeguarded in 2000 by the formation of the Ardbeg Committee.  The Committee is made up of thousands of Ardbeg followers worldwide who are keen to ensure that “the doors of Ardbeg never close again”. Today there are more than 200,000 members of the Ardbeg Committee in over 140 countries.  Committee Members are regularly consulted on new bottlings and expressions and are offered exclusive Committee bottlings. Members also receive invitations to special gatherings, tastings and events. The Committee, chaired by Jackie Thomson, is free to join at ardbeg.com.

Awards

Ardbeg is one of the world’s most highly awarded smoky single malt whiskies.  Since 2008, Ardbeg has won more than 50 gold and double gold medals in key whisky competitions.  Ardbeg has twice been awarded ‘World’s Best Single Malt’ at the World Whiskies Awards (2010, 2013).  At the 2014 Global Icons of Whisky Awards, then Distillery Manager Mickey Heads was voted ‘Distillery Manager of the Year’.  The following year, Ardbeg’s expressions took the top three spots in Whisky Advocate magazine’s review of the best single malt Scotch whiskies under US$100.  Meanwhile, both Ardbeg Corryvreckan and Ardbeg Uigeadail have been awarded gold medals at the 2016 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Ardbeg Ten Years Old also won the Best Single Malt Scotch 10 Year Old at the International Whisky Competition 2019, while the Ardbeg Distillery won the Distillery of the Year 2019. In 2020, the International Whisky Competition awarded Ardbeg Corryvreckan first place for Best Single Malt Scotch, Best Single Malt Scotch (No Age Statement), Best cask Strength (Over 57% ABV), Best Peated Scotch and Best Islay Single Malt. Ardbeg Wee Beastie also earned first place for Best Single Malt Scotch Under 10 Year Old and The Ardbeg Distillery achieved another Distillery of the Year award. In 2021, Dr Bill Lumsden MBE was awarded Master Distiller of the Year for the fifth time, and Ardbeg Uigeadail won World Whisky of the Year in the International Whisky Competition. In 2022, at the International Whisky Competition, Ardbeg was awarded The Distillery of the Year Award, while Ardbeg Ardcore won first place in Best New Scotch Release, Best Peated Single Malt and Best Islay Single Malt. In 2023, Ardbeg 25 Years Old was named the World’s Best Scotch Whisky at the New York Wine Spirits Competition. In 2024, Ardbeg 25 Years Old received a platinum award at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and Best Islay Single Malt at the World Whisky Awards. 

High-gravity mashing

Gravity is a measure of a wort’s density (a wort is a liquid created during mashing). A high-gravity mash uses a more concentrated wort with more grain and less water. The more concentrated wort results in a fruitier, juicier and more tropical style of Ardbeg’s spirit.

The Glenmorangie Company

The Company is one of the most renowned and innovative distillers and marketers of Scotch whisky brands worldwide and is part of Moët Hennessy, the wine and spirits division of Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton. Headquartered in Edinburgh, Scotland, the Company produces Glenmorangie Single Highland Malt whisky and Ardbeg Single Islay Malt.

There are brighter days, lighter evenings and of course plenty of weekends for getting off the beaten track. Our May Outturn is now available and offers another great selection of whiskies to keep you on your whisky adventure!

CONIFERS IN THE RAIN

CASK NO. 60.34

CASK:  2nd fill ex-bourbon barrel

AGE:  9 years

AND ME AND MY TRUE LOVE WILL YET MEET AGAIN

CASK NO. 135.62

CASK:  HTMC new oak hogshead

AGE:  16 years

MOROCCAN MEDJOOL MYSTIQUE

CASK NO. 85.77

CASK:  1st fill PX hogshead

AGE:  15 years

OLDE FUNKEY BUTTE

CASK NO. 78.68

CASK:  2nd fill oloroso butt

AGE:  9 years

GASTRONOMIC FUSION

SMALL BATCH SINGLE GRAIN

CASKS:  1st fill ex-bourbon barrels & 2nd fill ex-bourbon hogsheads

AGE:  8 years

A DIFFERENT SHADE OF PEAT

CASK NO. 11.55

FIRST APPEARANCE FROM
THIS DISTILLERY FOR SMWS CANADA

CASK:  2nd fill charred oak hogshead

AGE:  9 years

BROWSE MAY OUTTURN HERE

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The Scotch Malt Whisky Society Canada
Suite 160
104 – 1240 Kensington Road NW
Calgary, AB  T2N 3P7
403-969-8225
curious@smws.ca
www.smws.ca

What do 30, 13 and 11 make?  

(Whisky lovers very happy…)

Yes, we know age doesn’t matter. Much. Except, sometimes it does, sometimes a whisky has been aged to just the perfect point where it’s the best it’s ever been. Recognising that point is the hard bit. It’s also the fun bit. Whiskies age differently and are dependent on so many factors. One of the most important factors is actually owning the whiskies at the perfect time. Fortuitously we had in our possession three very interesting barrels at just the right time. Is that a lifetime of knowledge, experience and know-how on display or just dumb luck? We’ll let you decide.

For the peat lovers…

Our Ardmore 2013 Single Cask has been aged 11 Years and is cask strength, natural colour and non chill filtered, not something every Ardmore from that time can say. Happily aged in a 1st fill bourbon barrel filled with the rarer, heavily peated Ardmore. Big whisky this, great oily texture and some of the best Ardmore we’ve tasted. Label is the colour of the tiles that line the old direct fire furnaces under the stills at Ardmore.

Speyside Stages…

Speyside seldom disappoints and we hope you’ll agree our 13 year old Glen Elgin 2012 is one of Fogwatt’s better bottles. Single cask, cask strength, natural colour and non chill filtered as you’d expect from us.

Full maturation in 1st fill oloroso cask. We’d normally be careful of 1st fill sherry and delicate Glen Elgin distillate, but this was an American oak cask and it just works really well.

This has also given us the opportunity to show-off (not like us, we know). These bottles have white caps and the label represents the colour of our own 1993 BMW M3 rally car that we won(!) the 2025 Speyside Stages with in April this year. It’s been nearly 20 years since Chris and I did any form of motorsport and this is our first rally together so we thought that was a good enough reason for the label. The fact we actually won the S3 Class means you now have to buy at least one bottle, so you can bask in the reflected glory of the victory…

Glasgow Grain

Almost as old as our car is our final release, a 30 year old Strathclyde 1994 Single Grain Scotch Whisky.

As ever it’s cask strength, natural colour and non chill filtered.

Gorgeous grain from a refill sherry butt to us this conjures up tastes like marshmallow, milk chocolate and shortbread. When we combined this with our lack of geographical knowledge of Greater Glasgow there could only be one inspiration for our label; a Tunnocks Teacake. Iconic, beloved and an example of Scottish cuisine at it’s finest, and so is the teacake.

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