A brand new distillery has opened on Islay called Ardnahoe. Founded by Hunter Laing & Co., it brings a fresh spin on traditional Islay whisky making. The mysteries of the Ardnahoe Whisky Distillery were unraveled by their founder Andrew Laing.
One aspect of Islay whisky that holds allure for whisky lovers is its sweet and spicy flavor. Its distinctive and iconic characteristics make Islay whisky stand apart from others in its category. It’s the chance to make it for distillers, and the opportunity to enjoy it for the consumers. Islay is a small island in Scotland, with just 25 miles of coastline, but is home to ten operational distilleries (and more are planned).
Ardnahoe became the latest distillery to introduce its version of Islay whisky to the world. During an interview with Andrew Laing, the Whisky Wash discovered the mysteries of this new whisky.earlier in 2024.
Unveiling the Mysteries of the Ardnahoe Whisky Distillery
In 2018, Hunter Laing & Co. launched Ardnahoe, creating a brand of whisky that has a distinctive style. Port Ellen reopened earlier this year, but we will have to wait a few more years until that whisky is released.
“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.”
During the interview, the Whisky Wash also noted that “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 explained about 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.”
