Ardmore Whisky is made by Ardmore distillery, a renowned single malt Scotch whisky distillery located in the charming village of Kennethmont in Scotland. The distillery has a rich history and is currently owned and operated by Beam Suntory, an American subsidiary of Suntory Holdings from Osaka, Japan.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of experiencing Ardmore Whisky firsthand and can attest to the exceptional quality and craftsmanship that goes into each bottle. The distillery's dedication to traditional whisky-making techniques is evident in the depth and complexity of their whiskies.
Ardmore distillery has been producing whisky since its establishment in 1898. Over the years, they have gained a reputation for creating peated whiskies with a unique character. Peated whiskies are known for their smoky and earthy flavors, and Ardmore certainly delivers in this aspect.
What sets Ardmore Whisky apart is their use of traditional production methods combined with modern innovation. They carefully select the finest barley, which is malted and then milled to release the starches necessary for fermentation. The distillery takes pride in using locally sourced water from the nearby Knockandy Hill, which adds a distinct quality to the whisky.
The mashing process involves soaking the malted barley in hot water to extract sugars, which then undergo fermentation in wooden washbacks. Ardmore uses specially selected yeast strains to ensure a consistent and flavorful fermentation process.
Once fermentation is complete, the liquid is distilled using traditional copper pot stills. The distillery employs a combination of smaller and larger stills, allowing for a more precise control over the distillation process. This careful attention to detail ensures that only the finest spirit is collected.
After distillation, the whisky is aged in oak casks, which greatly influences its flavor and character. Ardmore uses a variety of cask types, including ex-bourbon, sherry, and specially crafted casks. The maturation process takes place in the distillery's warehouses, where the whisky develops its unique flavors and gains complexity over time.
The skilled master blenders at Ardmore then carefully select and marry together different casks to create the final expression of Ardmore Whisky. This blending process is crucial in achieving a well-balanced and harmonious whisky that showcases the distillery's distinct style.
In my personal experience, tasting Ardmore Whisky has been a journey of discovery. The smoky notes combined with hints of fruit, spice, and oak create a truly captivating sensory experience. Each sip reveals new layers and nuances, making it a whisky that can be enjoyed and appreciated by both seasoned whisky enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Ardmore Whisky is made with meticulous attention to detail and a deep respect for tradition. The distillery's commitment to crafting exceptional single malt Scotch whisky is evident in every bottle. Whether you're a whisky connoisseur or simply someone looking to explore the world of Scotch whisky, Ardmore is a distillery worth exploring.