Yesterday I was invited to a lunch launch of Ardbeg’s newest release, which will join its core collection: Ardbeg AN OA.
But before I speak about the Scotch, I want to rave about a particularly amazing host.
Brendan McCarron, the Head of Maturing Whisky Stocks for Ardbeg and Glenmorangie.
Who was one of the most intelligent, interesting and hilariously engaging people I’ve ever met.
If you ever get the chance to visit Ardbeg in Scotland… Find him!
Now back to the Scotch…
Created in a specialty cask made from French Oak, AN OA has a sweeter profile than the other labels in the collection.
Still as smokey as all can be (a delicious calling card of all of Ardbeg’s peaty offerings), AN OA notes are described as “dark chocolate and aniseed wrapped in smooth, silky butterscotch, black pepper and clove.”
Which in layman’s terms reads as “more please!”
AN OA would now be my first choice when shopping for a bottle of Ardbeg, followed by its brother Corryvrekan.
And now on to some more exciting news…
On June 2nd it’s Ardbeg Day and in Calgary you’ll have the chance to attend a Master Tasting Class AND a party called Peat & Love.
The Master Class ($19.95, tickets HERE) will not only give you a chance to learn more about the brand, you’ll also be tasting 6+ labels, which will include AN OA and the limited release Ardbeg Grooves!
At the Peat & Love Party ($19.95, tickets HERE) you’ll be greeted with an Ardbeg blended cocktail and snack on 60’s inspired food creations, including a chocolate fondue. In addition there will be games and chances to win some pretty great Ardbeg swag!
So if you love scotch, think you might like scotch, want to try scotch or are asking ‘what the heck is scotch’, pick up a bottle of Ardbeg or get a ticket for the Ardbeg Day events before they sell out!
This is the scotch you definitely want to taste!
Sláinte
Mr. Fab eg
