Ardbeg Smoketrails Manzanilla Edition captures the spirit of Islay with an adventurous twist, bold peat smoke meeting the coastal elegance of Manzanilla sherry cask maturation. Released as part of Ardbeg’s global travel exclusive series, this expression takes the distillery’s signature power and tempers it with maritime finesse. It’s unmistakably Ardbeg: unapologetically smoky, deeply complex, and crafted for those who seek discovery in every dram.

Product Details:

Brand: Ardbeg | Category: Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky | ABV: 46% | Origin: Scotland (Islay) | Volume: 1L

Tasting Profile:

Nose: Intense waves of peat smoke intertwined with sea spray, salted almonds, and zesty citrus. Beneath the smoke, subtle Manzanilla sherry notes reveal hints of olive brine, roasted nuts, and dried fruit.
Palate: Rich and powerful, with dark chocolate, smoked oak, and espresso notes balanced by maritime salinity. The Manzanilla cask influence adds a dry, nutty complexity that accentuates Ardbeg’s coastal character.
Finish: Long, dry, and smoky, layers of tar, salt, and sherry warmth linger with remarkable balance and persistence.

Production Details:

This limited-edition expression marries classic Ardbeg matured in ex-bourbon barrels with whisky aged in Manzanilla sherry casks from Spain’s coastal town of Sanlúcar de Barrameda. The combination intensifies both peat and salinity, creating a dram that reflects Islay’s rugged coastline and the maritime dryness of Manzanilla. Bottled at 46% ABV with no chill filtration, it preserves full body and texture.

Perfect For:

Ideal for fans of smoky whiskies who appreciate nuance and depth. Perfect neat or with a few drops of water to unlock the sherry’s subtle sweetness and briny undertones. Suited for reflective evenings or pairing with dark chocolate and cured meats.

Expert Notes:

Critics and enthusiasts praise Smoketrails Manzanilla Edition for its balance of intensity and restraint. The sherry influence adds dimension without overpowering the signature Ardbeg peat. It’s been described as “a masterclass in contrast, smoke and salt, power and grace.”

Customer Reviews:

“Classic Ardbeg power with a new coastal twist.”   Peter H.
“The Manzanilla adds elegance without dulling the smoke, outstanding balance.”   Ian M.
“Like a sea breeze through a bonfire, unforgettable.”   Lara S.

Interesting Fact:

Manzanilla sherry casks are rarely used in Scotch maturation. Their distinctive dry and saline character mirrors Islay’s maritime environment, making this pairing both experimental and harmoniously natural.

Serving Suggestions:

Enjoy neat at room temperature, or add a few drops of still water to open up the citrus and nutty tones. Avoid ice, as it can mute the whisky’s smoky and saline complexity.

Distillery Background:

Founded in 1815 on the southern coast of Islay, Ardbeg Distillery is renowned for producing some of the peatiest and most revered single malts in the world. Known for innovation without compromise, Ardbeg continuously explores new cask finishes that expand the boundaries of Islay whisky. The Smoketrails Manzanilla Edition exemplifies that pursuit, a journey through smoke, salt, and sherry, bottled for travelers and collectors alike.