Ardbeg Uigeadail (pronounced “Oog-a-dal”) is a bold and captivating Islay single malt Scotch whisky, meticulously crafted by marrying smoky, peaty notes from bourbon barrels with the luscious, raisin-like sweetness of sherry casks. Bottled at cask strength (54.2% ABV) and non-chill filtered, this fan-favorite whisky offers a rich, mouth-coating texture and unparalleled complexity. On the nose, it boasts warm aromas of Christmas cake, treacle toffee, and smoky leather, while the palate erupts with flavors of dark chocolate, honey-glazed smoked foods, and a burst of winter spices, all balanced by deep smoky undertones. The finish is long and indulgent, lingering with notes of mocha, raisins, and aromatic smoke. Named after the mystical Loch Uigeadail that provides its water, this award-winning dram is a must-try for peat lovers and collectors alike, offering the quintessential essence of Ardbeg's distinctive character.
Process & Profile
Ardbeg Uigeadail is crafted using Ardbeg's signature peat-packed process, producing one of the smokiest Islay malts. The whisky is named after Loch Uigeadail, the mysterious water source that imparts a unique mineral and smoky character. A meticulous vatting marries whisky matured in ex-bourbon American oak casks, offering smoky intensity, with the luscious, raisin-rich warmth from Oloroso sherry casks. Non-chill filtered and bottled at an impressive 54.2% ABV, this whisky retains maximum body, flavor, and character.
Tasting Notes
-
Color: Deep, radiant gold with rich, oily legs.
-
Nose: A complex symphony of smoky coal fire, cedarwood, and iodine, balanced with notes of Christmas cake, chocolate-coated raisins, and hints of parma violets.
-
Palate: Bold and full-bodied. Initial sweetness of treacle and honey intertwines with winter spices, espresso, and smoked meats. Subtle hints of lemon zest and salted cashews enrich the mid-palate.
-
Finish: Long, lingering, and chewy with waves of raisiny richness, mocha, and persistent smoky undertones. A satisfying balance of sweet and savory with a dry cocoa-peppery touch on the finish.
What Makes It Special
-
Signature Peat & Smoke: Known for being the smokiest of Islay malts, Ardbeg Uigeadail's peat content is harmoniously integrated, offering bold yet balanced phenolic flavors.
-
Sherry Influence: The Oloroso sherry cask maturation adds layers of sweetness, raisins, and spice, complementing the smoky backbone.
-
High Strength, Non-Chill Filtered: At 54.2% ABV, this whisky is unadulterated, offering deeper complexity and richness.
-
Award-Winning Legacy: Praised worldwide, it was named *World Whisky of the Year* in Jim Murray's Whisky Bible, testament to its silky brilliance and unparalleled complexity.
How to Enjoy
-
Neat or With Water: Perfect for sipping neat to savor its full intensity. A few drops of water amplify the smoky depth while unveiling hidden sweet layers of toffee and chocolate.
-
Pairings: Pair with smoked meats, dark chocolate, or aged cheeses to enhance its rich, smoky flavors.
-
Special Moments: Ideal for whisky enthusiasts and special occasions, this bold dram is sure to captivate your senses, whether by a roaring fire or at a gathering of fellow Islay fans.
Ardbeg Uigeadail is not just a whisky; it's an exploration into the mystic depths of Islay. Experience its incredible balance of smoke, sweetness, and spice—the bold embodiment of Ardbeg's legendary craftsmanship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ardbeg Uigeadail?
Ardbeg Uigeadail is a single malt Scotch whisky from the Islay region of Scotland, combining the distillery's signature smoky intensity with rich flavors from ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks. It is bottled at cask strength (54.2% ABV) and offers a complex profile of sweetness, spice, and peat smoke.
How is the name "Uigeadail" pronounced and what does it mean?
The name "Uigeadail" is pronounced "Oo-ga-dal" and is derived from Loch Uigeadail, the distillery's unique water source, which contributes to its rich, peaty character.
What flavors can I expect from Ardbeg Uigeadail?
Expect a rich combination of flavors, including honey, dried fruits, figs, caramelized orange, baking spices, and hints of salty iodine. The palate is smoky with layers of treacle, barbecue notes, and a slightly oily texture, finishing with lingering sweetness and smoke.
Is Ardbeg Uigeadail suitable for vegans?
Yes, Ardbeg Uigeadail is certified vegan.
What awards has Ardbeg Uigeadail won?
Ardbeg Uigeadail was named "Whisky of the Year" by Jim Murray's Whisky Bible in 2009, scoring an extraordinary 97.5 points. It has also earned double gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2011 and 2012.
What makes Ardbeg Uigeadail unique compared to other Ardbeg whiskies?
Ardbeg Uigeadail stands out for its combination of bourbon and sherry cask maturation, adding a layer of figgy sweetness and spicy richness to the signature smoky profile. It also has a higher phenol content (50 PPM) compared to many other whiskies, increasing its smoky intensity.
How should I serve Ardbeg Uigeadail?
Ardbeg Uigeadail can be enjoyed neat to preserve its bold flavors or with a few drops of water to open up additional aromas and tastes. It is also a popular choice for those exploring peated whiskies.
What is the aging process for Ardbeg Uigeadail?
The whisky is a blend of spirits aged in ex-bourbon oak barrels and sherry butts. These casks are carefully selected to achieve a balance of smoke, sweetness, and spice, typical of this expression.
Is Ardbeg Uigeadail peated?
Yes, Ardbeg Uigeadail is heavily peated, with a phenol level of approximately 50 PPM, contributing to its characteristic smoky and earthy profile.
Can I visit the Ardbeg distillery?
Yes, the Ardbeg distillery, located on the Isle of Islay, welcomes visitors for tours that showcase its historic production process and stunning surroundings, including Loch Uigeadail.