Ardbeg Wee Beastie

Country: Scotland

Region: Islay

Producer: Ardbeg Distillery Ltd (LVHM)

Category: Single Malt

Age: 5 years old

Barrel Type: Bourbon & Oloroso Sherry

Alcohol Content: 47.4% (94.8 proof)

Size: 750ml

Level: Introductory

When they announced the launch of this expression in April 2020, most of the whisky community was somewhat skeptical. In many places, it took quite a while to arrive due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so gradually, word spread that it’s a great contender. In Mexico, it wasn’t released until July 2024, and its distribution, as of the date of this review, is still inconsistent. We hope that changes in the near future.

There has been an hasten in the release of core expressions. Before An Oa, which was released in 2017, the last new expression was Corryvreckan in 2009, which replaced the Ardbeg Airigh Nam Beist

As usual, Dr. Bill Lumsden, Ardbeg's Director of Whisky Creation, shared his thoughts on the release of the Wee Beastie: “I’m in no doubt that Ardbeggians will love this tongue-tingling expression. The casks chosen for its creation make it ideal for enjoying neat or as the mouth-watering main ingredient in a powerfully smoky cocktail.”

Mickey Heads, who was Ardbeg's manager at the time of its release and retired shortly after after 13 years at the helm, said: “A new permanent expression in the core range is always momentous for the Distillery, but Wee Beastie is a particularly special dram. As it’s a younger whisky, it means we’re able to get as close to the still as possible. So it’s safe to say this is a ferociously good wee nip!”

Tasting Notes

Nose: Charcoal-grilled smoke with a salty note and a hint of tar. It later reveals a citrus and, curiously, slightly sweet note. It reminds me a bit of a butterscotch candy (Laposse).

Taste: The peat is gentler than the Ardbeg 10 Year Old, causing a slight tingling sensation that lingers. The citrus and tar notes are confirmed.

Aftertaste: The tingling sensation slowly dissipates, giving way to herbal notes along with a slight sweetness that reminds me of a ripe pear, and you end up with a dry, tobacco ash. The aftertaste is definitely long.

Just as its name suggests, Ardbeg Wee Beastie is a little monster. At just 5 years old, this expression shows us that it is possible to create a well-received, a daily sip whisky without resorting to special finishes. A simple whisky for those who want to explore the world of smoked spirits, yet complex enough to be enjoyed by anyone.

Adding a little water to this little monster brings out the peat, along with sweet notes. I had read about chocolate and anise in the official notes. However, they didn't seem relevant to me during the tasting; it was only after adding water that they revealed their presence.

My Rating:

I clasify whisky into 4 categories: Introdutory, Casual, Intermediate and Complex. and from there I rate each one acording to their aroma, palate, complexity and palatability

Level: Introductory

Aroma: 5/5

Palate: 4/5

Complexity: 5/5

Palatability: 4/5

Overall Rating: 9/10

Official website: https://www.ardbeg.com/