This expression is named after Mull of Oa, a rocky outcrop that shields the Ardbeg Distillery from the unforgiving forces of the Atlantic Ocean. Ardbeg An Oa is characterized by its singularly rounded shape, which is largely attributed to the time it spends in the newly established bespoke oak Gathering Vat. In this vat, whiskies from various cask types, including sweet Pedro Ximenez, spicy virgin charred oak, and intense ex-bourbon casks, interact and exchange flavours. The result is a dram with smoky power, balanced by a delectable and smooth sweetness. Hallmark Ardbeg peat, dark chocolate, and aniseed are enveloped in a smooth and silky butterscotch, complemented by black pepper and clove. The flavours culminate in an intense crescendo.
Available in 70cl bottles at 46.6% alcohol by volume, Ardbeg An Oa is non-chill-filtered.
Check out the rest of the Ardbeg Range.
TASTING NOTES
NOSE
Rounded and smoky - like burning Applewood - with creamy toffee, aniseed, treacle and dates. A curious suggestion of juicy fruits, such as peach and banana. With a drop of water, reminders of Ardbeg’s classic fragrance – lime, pine resin, fennel, saddle soap and tar. A gentle waxiness, like fragrant candle wax, and hints of smoked herbs. An Oa gives a final subtle reminder of the sea with briny notes and seaweed but always accompanied with creaminess.
TASTE
A smooth, creamy texture leads into a huge syrupy sweetness, flavours of milk chocolate, treacle toffee, aniseed, orange and smoky tea leaves. Gentle, sweet spices (nutmeg & cinnamon), some cigar smoke, and a very unusual flavour of grilled artichokes. Wood is always present in the spirit, gently nutty and reminiscent of a carpenter’s workshop. A long, sweet finish, with floral overtones, mint toffee and some gentle malty biscuit notes.
FINISH
Lingering, seductive, gentle yet intense, with flavours of aniseed, hickory and distant subtle smoke.
