ARDBEG BizarreBQ

It all started with the ultimate idea: three unique barrels, two masters of their craft and a lot of heat and smoke... what do you get? The distillery's first whisky inspired exclusively by the barbecue: Ardbeg BizarreBQ. 

Master Distiller Dr Bill Lumsden teamed up with barbecue hero Christian Stevenson (aka DJ BBQ) to create this delicious malt whisky with spicy, peaty notes. 

As with barbecues, a key element in distilling is the fire that creates the flavour. That's why Ardbeg BizarreBQ is made from double charred oak casks, Pedro Ximénez sherry casks and the specially invented BBQ casks, which have been over-charred in a traditional fire basket. This combination of barrels provides a deliciously sweet, spicy and smoky flavour that goes perfectly with any barbecue.

TASTING NOTES

COLOR: The liquid presents itself with a deep golden amber, reflecting a certain visual warmth. Its rich tonality evokes the influence of aged wood and the complex layers of smoke that characterize this expression, as if each drop contains the essence of the island of Islay.

NOSE: Charcoal and soot aromas mingle with smoky wood and aromatic herbs and spices. Molasses toffee, hickory-smoked ham and cinnamon-scented espresso appear. With a splash of water, unmistakably strong citrus flavours are released, with herbal notes of fennel and aniseed. Grilled artichokes and some grilled meat make the taste buds sizzle. The unmistakable smell of a campfire and the embers of a barbecue waft in the background.

MOUTH: On the palate, Ardbeg BizarreBQ is lively and spicy, with notes of chilli marinated ribs. It is followed by a deep, warm smoke with steak grilled over an open fire, chilli oil, tanned leather and clove. Ginger, anise and tar crackle on the palate with an aromatic note of wood smoke.

FINISH: The powerful, spicy finish is long lasting, with more grilled artichoke, black olives and a slowly dissipating sooty note.