Ardbeg An Oa

Ardbeg An Oa is a 46.6% ABV peated single malt Scotch whisky produced at the Ardbeg Distillery on the Isle of Islay, Scotland. When launched in 2017, it was the first new addition to Ardbeg's permanent range in ten years. It takes its name from the Mull of Oa peninsula in southern Islay.

How is it made?

An Oa is a combination of whiskies matured in Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, new charred oak casks and ex-bourbon casks. These whiskies are brought together in a French oak vessel the distillery calls the "Gathering Vat". The whisky is bottled with no age statement and without chill filtration; the producer describes it as "where the smoke meets the sweet".

What does Ardbeg An Oa taste like?

The nose is round and lightly smoky; creamy toffee, aniseed, treacle and dates are followed by juicy fruits such as peach and banana. The palate has a creamy texture and pronounced syrupy sweetness; milk chocolate, toffee, aniseed, orange, smoky tea leaves, nutmeg and cinnamon are all present. The finish is persistent, soft yet intense, carrying aniseed, hickory and a faint trace of smoke in the distance.

How should it be served, and what food does it pair with?

Drinking it neat or with a few drops of water brings out classic Ardbeg notes such as lemon, pine resin and tar. Its sweet-smoky character pairs well with barbecued meats, smoked fish and mature cheeses.