Ardbeg is indeed owned by Glenmorangie. Specifically, it is part of the House of Glenmorangie within the larger Moet Hennessy/LVMH group. This ownership structure provides Ardbeg with the resources and support it needs to continue producing its renowned single malt Scotch whisky.
To give some context, Glenmorangie is a well-established distillery located in the Highlands of Scotland. It has a long history dating back to 1843 and has gained a reputation for producing high-quality single malt whisky. Ardbeg, on the other hand, is located on the southern coast of the Isle of Islay, an island known for its peaty and smoky style of whisky.
The decision to acquire Ardbeg was made by Glenmorangie in 1997, with the intention of broadening their portfolio and expanding their reach in the whisky industry. This move was met with enthusiasm by whisky enthusiasts, as Ardbeg had a loyal following and was highly regarded for its distinctive flavor profile.
Since the acquisition, Glenmorangie has invested in Ardbeg, allowing it to further develop and refine its production processes. This has resulted in increased production levels, with Ardbeg now producing 1 million liters of whisky annually. This growth has allowed Ardbeg to meet the growing demand for its whisky while maintaining the quality and character that it is known for.
Having visited Ardbeg myself, I can say that the distillery has a captivating charm. The buildings are nestled amongst the rugged coastline of Islay, providing a picturesque backdrop for whisky production. The traditional methods used at Ardbeg, such as floor malting and copper pot stills, contribute to the unique character of their whisky.
In terms of flavor, Ardbeg whiskies are known for their peatiness and smokiness. The peat used in the malting process imparts a distinct earthy and smoky aroma, which is further intensified during the drying of the malted barley. This results in a whisky that is rich, robust, and often described as having a “peat monster” character.
To summarize, Ardbeg is indeed owned by Glenmorangie, which is part of the Moet Hennessy/LVMH group. This ownership has allowed Ardbeg to continue producing its renowned single malt Scotch whisky while benefiting from the resources and support of a larger organization. The result is a whisky that maintains its distinctive flavor profile and continues to captivate whisky enthusiasts around the world.