Ardbeg Distillery

In an unexpected twist of fate, Ardbeg Distillery entered a period of deep dormancy in 1981, when its operations were brought to a halt. For much of the decade, its iconic stills fell silent, leaving whisky enthusiasts wondering about the future of this beloved Islay institution. Small-scale distillation cautiously resumed in 1989, hinting at a potential revival, but the following years were anything but steady. Between 1990 and 1996, the distillery experienced a turbulent cycle of intermittent openings and closures, casting uncertainty over its fate. By 1996, it seemed the doors had closed for good, leaving Ardbeg fans around the world disheartened.

Fortunately, salvation came in 1997, when Glenmorangie plc acquired the distillery and set out on a mission to bring Ardbeg back to life. This turning point marked the beginning of an extensive restoration effort, led by a dedicated team determined to preserve the legacy of this iconic whisky producer. The distillery underwent a meticulous rejuvenation process, including much-needed repairs, upgrades, and even a fresh coat of paint to restore its physical and symbolic splendor. Thanks to their unwavering efforts, Ardbeg was not only saved but revitalized, reclaiming its position as one of Islay's most cherished distilleries and earning a renewed place in the hearts of whisky lovers worldwide.