Unleash bold flavors with the **Ardbeg Monsters of Smoke Limited Edition Gift Set**, a thrilling collection of Islay's iconic single malts. This set features three 200ml bottles of Ardbeg's celebrated smoky whiskies: the flagship *Ardbeg 10 Years Old*, a timeless classic; *Wee Beastie*, a youthful yet ferociously peaty 5-year-old; and *An Oa*, a complex masterpiece finished in three cask types. Each bottle is adorned with peelable labels that reveal exclusive artwork inspired by vintage B-movie horror, enhancing its collectible appeal. Packaged in a striking design that reflects Islay's wild spirit, this gift set is perfect for smoky whisky enthusiasts and adventurous collectors alike.
Process & Profile
This limited-edition gift set features three 200ml bottles of Ardbeg's celebrated whiskies: Ardbeg Ten Years Old, Ardbeg Wee Beastie, and Ardbeg An Oa. Each expression is crafted on the rugged Isle of Islay, where Ardbeg is renowned for its commitment to traditional methods, bold spirit, and peaty perfection. The careful maturation process includes the use of premium cask combinations such as ex-bourbon, Oloroso sherry, Pedro Ximénez, virgin charred oak, and American oak casks. The result is a rich spectrum of flavors that balance intense smokiness with nuanced complexity.
Tasting Notes
-
Ardbeg Ten Years Old: Revered as the peatiest, smokiest, and most complex single malt, this flagship whisky boasts notes of lime, black pepper, cinnamon-spiced toffee, silky buttermilk, and a lingering smoky finish.
-
Ardbeg Wee Beastie: A vibrant 5-year-old expression with untamed smokiness. Expect explosions of chocolate, smoked bacon, tar, eucalyptus, and aniseed, complemented by a fiery, youthful character.
-
Ardbeg An Oa: A harmonious blend of whiskies matured in three distinct casks. This expression entices with flavors of creamy toffee, treacle, dried fruit, and hints of aniseed and smoke for a perfectly balanced and complex dram.
What Makes It Special
-
Unique Artwork & Peelable Labels: Inspired by the retro world of 1950s B-movie horror, each collectible bottle features peelable labels that reveal hidden artwork underneath, making it a visual as well as sensory delight.
-
Award-Winning Legacy: Ardbeg has a history of earning accolades, including titles such as World Whisky of the Year and Scotch Whisky of the Year. This trio showcases the distillery's mastery in creating world-class whiskies.
-
Versatile Gift Option: Ideal for whisky enthusiasts, the set is a perfect introduction to Ardbeg's Core Range or a prized collector's item for fans of peaty Islay whiskies.
How to Enjoy
-
Neat: To fully appreciate the layers of flavor and craftsmanship, enjoy these whiskies neat in a Glencairn glass.
-
With Water: Add a splash of water to open up the aroma and soften the peat for a different tasting experience.
-
Cocktails: Use these bold expressions to create smoky whisky cocktails, such as an Old Fashioned or a smoky twist on a Rob Roy.
-
Pairings: Complement the whiskies with smoked meats, dark chocolate, or blue cheese for a gourmet indulgence.
Unleash the legendary Monsters of Smoke and immerse yourself in the unparalleled world of Ardbeg with this bold and thrilling gift set. Perfect for gifting or savoring, it's a must-have for every whisky maven.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the Ardbeg Monsters of Smoke Limited Edition Gift Set?
The gift set includes three 200 mL bottles of Ardbeg's iconic Islay single malt whiskies: Ardbeg Ten Years Old, Ardbeg Wee Beastie, and Ardbeg An Oa. Each bottle showcases a unique flavor profile, ranging from the smoky complexity of Ardbeg An Oa to the bold and youthful bite of Wee Beastie, and the classic robust character of Ten Years Old.
What makes this set limited edition?
This limited edition set not only showcases three of Ardbeg's celebrated whiskies but also features collectible bottles with peelable labels. Behind each label, you can discover unique 1950s-inspired B-movie artwork, making it a fun and exclusive addition to any whisky collection.
Are the bottles full-size?
No, the set includes three 200 mL bottles, which are smaller than the standard 700-750 mL whisky bottles. This size is perfect for tasting and exploring Ardbeg's range without committing to full-size bottles.
What are the alcohol by volume (ABV) levels of the included whiskies?
The ABV levels are slightly different for each whisky:
- Ardbeg Ten Years Old: 46.0% ABV
- Ardbeg Five Years Old Wee Beastie: 47.4% ABV
- Ardbeg An Oa: 46.6% ABV.
What flavors can I expect from these whiskies?
- *Ardbeg Ten Years Old*: Robust and intensely smoky with hints of citrus and a long, bold finish.
- *Wee Beastie*: Youthful and vibrant with smoky, spicy, and peppery notes, offering a ‘beastly' bite.
- *An Oa*: A complex, rounded whisky with layers of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors from its unique cask finishes (including Pedro Ximénez, virgin oak, and ex-bourbon casks).
Can I gift wrap this set?
Gift wrapping options may be available depending on the retailer. Charges and availability may vary, so it's best to check the specific retailer's checkout process for details.
Who is this gift set ideal for?
This set is perfect for whisky enthusiasts, collectors, or anyone exploring peated Islay whiskies for the first time. Its limited edition nature and unique artwork also make it a great gift for Ardbeg fans.
Is this set suitable for whisky beginners?
Absolutely! While the flavors are bold and smoky, the smaller bottle sizes allow beginners to sample a range of profiles without committing to full-sized bottles. Each whisky offers a distinctive take on Islay's renowned peated style, making it an excellent introduction to the region.
Are these whiskies chill-filtered?
No, the whiskies in this set are non-chill filtered, preserving their rich textures and robust flavors.
Can I purchase the whiskies separately?
Yes, Ardbeg Ten Years Old, Wee Beastie, and An Oa are part of Ardbeg's core range and are available as standalone bottles in standard sizes, depending on availability.
Does this set ship internationally?
Shipping policies vary by retailer. Certain vendors may not ship to PO boxes or international destinations, so review the retailer's terms and conditions when purchasing.
How do I store the unopened bottles?
Keep the bottles stored upright in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, to maintain their flavor and quality over time.