Unveiling the Mysteries of the Ardnahoe Whisky Distillery
The Ardnahoe Whisky Distillery is Islay’s newest distillery, founded by Hunter Laing & Co. Their debut release, which can be purchased worldwide, brings a fresh take on the iconic Islay whisky style.
There are few regions with the longstanding tradition and mystique of Islay, where every dram carries an essence of its own. Something about Islay whisky holds a special appeal for whisky lovers. Despite being the second smallest region in terms of size and just 25 miles long, Islay has ten operational distilleries (with more on the way).
In 2024, Ardnahoe became the newest distillery to introduce its Islay whisky to the world. In an interview with the Whisky Wash, Andrew Laing revealed the beauty of this fantastic new whisky.
Presenting the Mysteries of the Ardnahoe Whisky Distillery
Scotch fans may know that Port Ellen opened earlier this year, but the reborn version will not arrive for a few years yet. However, Hunter Laing & Co. founded Ardnahoe in 2018 and is releasing its distinctive whisky style to the world.
“Coming from our background as blenders and independent bottlers, we have over the decades acquired an understanding of what we feel makes the best Islay single malt whisky,” Andrew Laing, Ardnahoe Export Director explained.
“It was our founder Stewart’s dream to produce his preferred style of spirit, which would mature well in both bourbon and sherry – particularly oloroso – casks.”
According to the Whisky Wash, “The Laing’s, who are the founders of the distillery, have family connections to Islay that stretch back to the 1700s, and so the location just felt right when they were looking for a location. “Islay’s whiskies and distilleries are rightly held in very high regard so we were eager to take our place amongst them.”
“We always agreed that we would never rush the release of our first Ardnahoe whisky and that the whisky would tell us when it was ready,” Andrew commented on the choice of age for their first release.
“In recent months it became apparent that the maturity of the whisky had developed to the point that the peaty and fruity characteristics of the distillate were in good balance with the influence from the bourbon and sherry casks in which it has been matured. We finally knew we could create an inaugural release to be proud of.”