Ardbeg Heavy Vapours Limited Edition Single Malt Whisky 700ml

Ardbeg Heavy Vapours Limited Edition is the highly anticipated Ardbeg Day 2023 release, created through one of the distillery's most unusual experiments. For this expression, Ardbeg removed the purifier from its stills during distillation—a component traditionally responsible for creating the balance between Ardbeg's smoky and fruity characteristics. Without it, heavier vapours were allowed to rise through the spirit, resulting in a darker, more intense and robust style of Ardbeg whisky.

Matured in ex-bourbon casks and bottled without chill filtration at 46% ABV, Heavy Vapours showcases a bold profile where powerful smoke, tar, spice, dark chocolate, and medicinal notes take centre stage, while the usual floral and fruity characteristics are intentionally subdued.

Tasting Notes

Colour:
Pale straw gold.

Nose:
Intense peat smoke, tarry rope, creosote, dark chocolate cream, smoked herbs, medicinal notes, and earthy undertones.

Palate:
Powerful and full-bodied with layers of ashy smoke, coal dust, dark chocolate, cardamom, coffee grounds, eucalyptus, aniseed, black pepper, brine, and earthy peat. The absence of the purifier creates a heavier and more robust character than typical Ardbeg releases.

Finish:
Long, smoky, bold, and warming with lingering peat, spice, dark chocolate, medicinal notes, and maritime salinity.