Ardbeg has revealed its limited edition whisky for Ardbeg Day 2025—Ardbeg Smokiverse, a release created using a high-gravity mash that the distillery says intensified fruit-forward acetate esters, resulting in a tropical and smoky profile unlike anything previously released.
Ardbeg Day, held annually on the final Saturday of Fèis Ìle, falls this year on Saturday, May 31st, marking the 25th anniversary of the Ardbeg Committee. In celebration, Ardbeg Smokiverse will take centre stage at the Distillery and at global events.
This bottling is the first Ardbeg made using a high-gravity mash—a technique involving less water in the mash tun, resulting in a denser wort. According to Ardbeg’s team, this method draws out sweet, fruity ester compounds that bring a vibrant twist to Ardbeg’s traditionally smoky style.
The whisky was matured in bourbon casks and is said to offer layers of muscovado sugar, ripe barley, and toasted sourdough, followed by tropical fruits and sweet peat smoke.
Dr Bill Lumsden MBE, Director of Whisky Creation at Ardbeg, commented:
“The first whisky we have ever made with a high-gravity mash, Ardbeg Smokiverse takes our single malt’s classic peaty character to a new frontier of flavour… you can expect a vibrant burst of fruity, ester notes—rather like smoked bubblegum—alongside smoky and sweet layers.”
In keeping with the whisky’s theme, Ardbeg Day 2025 events will take on a space-themed atmosphere, with tastings, food, cocktails and games launching Committee Members and guests into the “Smokiverse”.
Ardbeg Smokiverse is bottled at 48.3% ABV, with an RRP of £93. It will be available to Ardbeg Committee Members from May 28–30 via Ardbeg.com and Ardbeg embassies, and more widely from May 31st via specialist online retailers.
