Their Website says they were mothballed in 19981 until 1997. I have just purchased 10 YO scotch and they also, apparently, have older scotches.
How is this possible if they have only been in operation since 1997?
Thanks.
Will
Ardbeg was mothballed 1981-1989 and 1996-1997
the "17" currently contains whisky from ~1980 - that's why Arbeg doesn't produce it at the moment.
The owners at the time didn't feel it was a high profile product for them.. they let the facilities get really run down. While on tour there we got to see pictures of the condition of the place when it was taken over/sold..it was a real mess.
The spotty and even bizzare production history is one of the reasons I really enjoy the single cask offerings occasionally available from the distillery and from the indies... so far I've bought just about every one I've seen and never been disappointed (OK the is a Max $ limit I'm not Bill Gates)
I've got a 1972 single distillery bottleing at home right now ... one day I'm sure I'll open it..
(I also collect the Broras for pretty much the same reasons)
Is everything together now re Ardbeg?
BTW, I hate their Web site. It is cheesy. I hate when whisky makers try to be cute.
I think they should stay with the image of serious Scottish men making high quality Scotch.
Will
Pretty much all fixed up.. there are still changes going on but they are now small (as of October 04 when I ws last there).
The place is great...It was one of my favorite tours (been twice) they have a wonderful restaurant and good shop.
Ardbeg is owned by the same people that own Glenmorangie and they have invested a lot in the place.. and they pump the tourist thing (hence the web site)(1).
(1)Glenmorangie has recently been sold but by all accounts there will be no significant changes in opperations or plans.
Your comment is somewhat amusing seeing as their master blender, Rachel Barrie, is a woman. ;o)
Johanna
William Anders> Is everything together now re Ardbeg?
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