The Ardbeg An Oa review is a tricky one, because this is a good whisky that I find hard to get excited about. It’s the softer, rounder Ardbeg, and for me that’s the problem.
Ardbeg An Oa: the basics
An Oa is named after the Mull of Oa, the rugged peninsula on Islay near Ardbeg Distillery. It’s a no-age-statement single malt at 46.6%, made from a blend of casks, including Pedro Ximenez sherry and charred virgin oak, and brought together in a large “gathering vat” before bottling.
The aim was a rounder, creamier, less aggressive Ardbeg.
Ardbeg An Oa tasting notes
The nose is smoke, vanilla and sweet fruit, with a hint of coffee. It’s gentler than the 10, with the peat turned down a notch.
On the palate it’s creamy and smoky, with sweet vanilla, dark fruit and some pepper. The finish is medium-long and smoky. It’s smooth and well made, but I miss the bite and the citrus of the 10.
The best way to drink Ardbeg An Oa
Neat, with a little water if you like. I’d also try it in a smoky Old Fashioned, where the creamy sweetness helps. It doesn’t need much help, but it’s pleasant.
How much is Ardbeg An Oa, and is it worth it?
About £55 for 70 cl. That’s a bit more than the 10, and for me you get less excitement, not more. It’s fair but not special, which is why my score is 66. Where to buy Ardbeg An Oa: start with the retailer link on this page, then compare it with your usual shop.
Alternatives to Ardbeg An Oa
Ardbeg 10 is the better value and the sharper whisky, Ardbeg Uigeadail is richer and sherried, and Bowmore 12 is a softer Islay choice.
Who should buy Ardbeg An Oa?
People who find the 10 a bit too sharp and want a rounder, creamier Ardbeg.
Verdict: should you buy Ardbeg An Oa?
A smooth, creamy, smoky Ardbeg that I’d call good rather than great. The 10 is the one I’d buy first. Caskable score: 66 out of 100.
Smoke, vanilla and sweet fruit, with a hint of coffee.
Creamy and smoky, with vanilla, dark fruit and pepper.
Medium to long and smoky.
A smooth, creamy, smoky Ardbeg that is good rather than great.
Thomas Grønvold is the founder of Caskable and a whisky enthusiast who believes the best way to learn about whisky is simply to drink it, compare it, and stay curious. From supermarket favourites to bottles from distilleries around the world, he writes about what he actually tastes and experiences, without pretending you need to be an expert to enjoy a good dram.
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