The Ultimate Islay Malt
Founded in 1815 by John MacDougall, Ardbeg Distillery sits on the rugged south coast of Islay, where the Atlantic winds carry salt spray across the warehouses. The distillery has weathered many storms—both literal and metaphorical—including closure periods in the 1980s and 1990s.
In 1997, Glenmorangie Company (now part of LVMH) acquired Ardbeg and brought it back to life. Under their stewardship, Ardbeg has become one of the most revered names in Islay whisky, known for producing some of the peatiest whiskies in Scotland.
The distillery's renaissance has been remarkable. From near-extinction to cult status, Ardbeg now commands a devoted following worldwide, with the Ardbeg Committee boasting over 120,000 members globally.
Ardbeg's distinctive peated single malts, each with its own character
The flagship expression. Complex and smoky with sweet, fruity notes and maritime influence.
Named after Loch Uigeadail, matured in bourbon and sherry casks. Rich, complex, and intensely smoky.
Named after the famous whirlpool. Matured in French oak with a deeply intense character.
A harmonious marriage of different cask types, aged in the dedicated An Oa warehouse.
Ardbeg sources heavily peated malt (55 ppm phenols) from Port Ellen Maltings. The malt is mashed in a traditional mash tun with local water from Loch Uigeadail.
Fermentation takes place in traditional Oregon pine washbacks for approximately 55 hours, allowing for the development of complex flavors.
Double distillation in copper pot stills with unique shapes: a tall, narrow wash still and a spirit still with a purifier, which helps create Ardbeg's distinctive character.
Maturation primarily in American bourbon barrels, with some expressions finished in sherry casks or other specialty casks, all in traditional dunnage warehouses.
Last updated: 2026-08-28
Step behind the scenes and into the heart of whisky-making on this guided journey through the distillery. From milling to distilling, gain access to every stage of the production process. Uniquely, enjoy a guided tasting of three Core Range whiskies as you move through the distillery, experiencing the sights, smells, and flavours of each dram in real time.
£22.50
Step into the world of whisky-making with an immersive guided tour through the distillery. Discover every step of the time-honoured process, led by one of the knowledgeable guides. As a highlight, enjoy a guided tasting of three limited edition whiskies at carefully chosen points in the tour, savouring the aromas, flavours, and stories behind each dram.
£40
Journey to Warehouse 3 for an immersive tasting of whiskies straight from the cask. The guide will delve deep inside the liquid story of each of the five expressions tasted during this experience. An authentic warehouse experience surrounded by maturing casks.
£65
Embark on an exclusive whisky journey where every corner of the distillery reveals something new and exciting. This immersive roaming tasting experience explores hidden gems of the distillery, with stops in carefully selected areas to taste exceptional whiskies including rare and past releases.
£40
A leisurely weekend tour that blends the rich history of the distillery, the fascinating tales of its people, and the folklore of the surrounding area. This is more than a whisky tour—it's a journey through time, storytelling, and flavour. Savour a selection of whiskies that reflect past and present, from treasured old and rare drams to finest modern creations.
£70
During the silent season when production pauses, enjoy a guided tasting experience exploring five Ardbeg whiskies. Discover the flavour profiles and stories behind each expression in a relaxed, intimate setting within the distillery.
£22.50
Port Ellen
Isle of Islay
PA42 7EA
Mon-Fri: 10:00 - 16:30
Sat-Sun: 10:00 - 16:00
*Hours may vary seasonally
CalMac ferries from Kennacraig (2 hours) or Oban (4.5 hours) to Port Ellen. Ardbeg is 3 miles east of Port Ellen.
Free parking available. Follow the A846 east from Port Ellen for 3 miles. Car rental available at Port Ellen.
Limited bus service from Port Ellen. Check Islay Coaches for current schedules. Taxi services available from Port Ellen.
8th-century Celtic cross, 2 miles east. One of Scotland's finest high crosses.
1 mile west. Another renowned Islay distillery for comparison tastings.
2 miles west. Complete the "Kildalton Three" distillery tour.
Dramatic coastal walks and wildlife watching. RSPB reserve.