Follow your nose along the famous road from Port Ellen and you will eventually come to the most welcoming distillery on the island. Ardbeg's white-washed walls can be found nestling in a rocky cove on Islay's southern tip. Who would believe that back in 1981, the distillery fell silent and was mothballed? Fortunately in 1997, to the delight of fans all over the world The Glenmorangie Company rescued Ardbeg and a team of dedicated souls set about repairing and reviving the distillery (not to mention repainting it!).
Now, once again Ardbeg flows freely. And in the Old Kiln Cafe you can enjoy a dram and Mary's celebrated home-cooking. You can also tour the place with the distillery folk and pick up a bottle or two from the Old Kiln Shop. So do visit - we'd love to see you. It is, perhaps, the most peaty malt whisky in the world - certainly of all the Islay malts. Not to mention beautifully balanced, complex and deep. It's unthinkable now, but in 1981 production ceased and the distillery was mothballed. Happily in 1997, this beautiful malt began to flow again and enjoys enduring protection from all things bad by a loyal band in the shape of The Ardbeg Committee - a worldwide family of Ardbeg aficionados in 90 countries who work tirelessly to drink more Ardbeg and bring others into this esteemed fold.
Opening TimesSeptember-May, Monday to Friday, 10am-4pm. June-August, 7 days a week, 10am-5pm. Pre-booking for tours is advisable. Please note that the distillery closes during the Christmas holiday period.
Admission£2 for tour
