Hidden away in the rugged wilderness of Islay, Ardbeg Airigh Nam Beist takes its name from Gaelic meaning “shelter of the beast.” Legend has it that in the mossy loch near the distillery, something mysterious stirs, both a nod to local folklore and a perfect metaphor for the whisky itself. The 2008 release marked the final chapter for this much loved expression, making every sip a rare encounter with an Islay icon that’s now firmly in the realm of collectors’ treasures.

Ardbeg Airigh Nam Beist 2008 70cl
Brand: Ardbeg | Category: Single Malt Scotch Whisky | ABV: 46% | Origin: Islay, Scotland | Vol.: 70cl

Tasting Profile:
Nose: Billows of peat smoke wrapped in dark chocolate, roasted espresso, and a touch of sea spray, like standing on a windswept Islay shore.
Palate: Rich and velvety, with layers of smoky malt, black pepper, liquorice, and a subtle sweetness reminiscent of honeycomb.
Finish: Long, warming, and smoky, fading into a lingering earthy spice that calls you back for another sip.

Production Details:
Distilled in the early 1990s and matured in ex-bourbon casks, Airigh Nam Beist was bottled unchill-filtered to retain its full body and flavour. Each batch was released in limited quantities, making it as elusive as the “beast” it’s named after.

Perfect For:
Slow evenings by a crackling fire, sharing tall tales and legends with fellow peat lovers.

Expert Notes:
Revered among Ardbeg fans for striking the perfect balance between bold peat smoke and silky complexity, the 2008 release is now considered a classic piece of Islay whisky history.

Customer Reviews:
“Taste is pure magic, like the essence of Islay in a glass.”
“Missed my chance to buy more back in 2008, big regret!”
“Peaty, rich, and unforgettable. A whisky worth hunting down.”

Interesting Fact:
The name “Airigh Nam Beist” comes from a real place in the hills above the distillery, long shrouded in island myths about strange creatures and eerie sounds in the night.

Serving Suggestions:
Best enjoyed neat to appreciate its full character, or with just a drop of water to let the sweeter notes rise through the smoke.

Distillery Background:
Founded in 1815, Ardbeg has earned its reputation as one of Islay’s boldest distilleries, crafting whiskies famed for their powerful peat smoke and deep maritime character. With Airigh Nam Beist now long discontinued, bottles have become prized possessions for those who treasure the wilder side of Scotch.