Ardnahoe - Feils Ile 2024
The Emergent Player in the Islay Whisky Scene
Ardnahoe became the ninth whisky distillery on Islay back in 2018, though this year marked a particularly special milestone. They released their first expression (also their inaugural) and celebrated their first Feis Ile whisky experience! This was a highlight of the festival and lent a quieter, yet deeply cherished, atmosphere to the celebrations.
Historically, Ardnahoe has shared its Feis Ile day with Bowmore, presenting festival-goers with a delightful dilemma: which distillery to visit, or how to fit both into a busy schedule. Next year’s schedule might change—only time will tell. It's curious, though, that Ardnahoe doesn’t pair up with Bunnahabhain instead, since both distilleries request that guests arrive at Persabus and shuttle from there. The journey from Bowmore is a bit more complex, especially for those of us hopping on the bus.
We arrived a bit later in the day and it was busier than last year. We quickly secured a ticket that granted us the chance to purchase a bottle of the coveted Feis release (limited to just 931 bottles) and joined the queue. Within about 20 minutes, we had our special bottles and headed into the main visitor center. This space, bustling with energy around a circular bar, allows tasting of most whiskies and the purchase of drams. I sampled the inaugural release again, confirming my initial tasting notes.
Although tempted, we skipped the Master Class, which clashed with another favorite event at Bowmore. But I heard it was fascinating, especially with hints about future Ardnahoe releases and partnerships, such as one with Skerryvore. Did you know you can sign up on their website to become a Society member for free? It's worth it—you get early notifications and exclusive access to new releases!
We opted for the Operator’s Tour over the Master Class, even though we experienced this same tour last year before any distillery releases. Plus, our friends Bunny and the Doctor had never been to Ardnahoe. For only £25 per person, we enjoyed the Feis dram and the inaugural release dram (both in mini takeaway bottles), and a thorough tour around the production facilities. Ardnahoe’s setting is stunning, with photo opportunities that aren’t always possible at other distilleries. They also boast the longest 'lyne arm' in Scotland, which when used in distillation, allows the spirit longer contact with copper, impacting the flavour notes. Additionally, their use of worm tub condensers helps craft a spirit with a richer, more savoury character.
After tasting the Feis release and jotting down our notes, we enjoyed impressive Highland dancing and grabbed a slice of pizza before returning to Bowmore. The food options, including seafood and pizza, are somewhat limited but satisfying.
If you’re looking for an authentic, intimate Islay distillery experience on Feis day, where you can deeply engage with the culture and craft of whisky making, Ardnahoe is a perfect choice.
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Nose: Imagine strolling down the beach with a spicy margarita—the first sensation is exactly that! A vibrant blast of lime zest and a dash of salt hit immediately, followed by a dash of chili powder. It doesn't stop there; the complexity continues with an unexpectedly smooth undercurrent of peanut butter, merging into the delicate sweetness of floral cupcakes. A final hint of dill adds a fresh, herby twist that prepares the senses for more intrigue.
Palate: The first sip feels like popping open a tropical soda; there's a burst of cola intertwined with zesty lime and juicy pineapple! This quickly swirls into a spice route with notes of pink peppercorn and cinnamon. Creamy vanilla softens the spice while almond butter spreads its silky richness throughout. The exotic journey continues over toasted pine nuts, adding a crunchy, nutty depth. Right when you think you’ve got it figured out, a swirl of candy cane introduces a festive sweetness, contrasted by the earthy tones of smoked pepitas and savoury yams. Finishing off this eclectic medley are lingering notes of crispy plantain chips.