Ardbeg Ten Years Old is the flagship of the distillery’s range—a revered single malt known for its immense smoky intensity and remarkable complexity. Matured in ex-bourbon casks and non-chill filtered, this whisky offers the perfect balance between bold peat and the natural sweetness of the malt. Bottled at 46% ABV, it is a true Islay classic.

It pours a light gold, hinting at the brightness and depth within.

The aroma begins with an intense burst of smoky fruit—zesty lemon and lime wrapped in waxy dark chocolate. Bold notes of menthol and black pepper cut through the sweet smoke, followed by tarry ropes, graphite, and sea spray. Layers of smoked fish, crispy bacon, green bell peppers, baked pineapple, and pear juice create a richly layered nose.

A splash of water reveals oceanic minerality and briny sea air, joined by waxed citrus peel, coal tar soap, beeswax, and pine woodlands. Toasted vanilla, cinnamon, and warm nutty notes of hazelnut and almond toffee add further depth.

On the palate, crackling peat ignites a series of flavour explosions—sharp citrus, spicy black pepper, and cinnamon-spiced toffee. Briny notes mix with smooth buttermilk, ripe bananas, and juicy currants. As the smoke rises, a creamy wave of cappuccino and toasted marshmallows envelops the senses. The flavours deepen into dry espresso, liquorice root, and chewy tarry smoke.

The finish is long and lingering, with echoes of tarry espresso, aniseed, toasted almonds, soft barley, and fresh pear slowly fading into a warm, smoky haze.