ARTIST #15 The Dark Side of the Moon is a 15-year Highland single malt Scotch whisky from Ardmore Distillery, bottled at a robust 57% ABV for La Maison du Whisky's 15th anniversary. This limited edition of just 337 bottles was distilled in 2009 and finished in first-fill Pedro Ximénez sherry hogsheads, creating a rich and complex expression that showcases the Highland character with luxurious sherry influence.

Ardmore Distillery, nestled in the Speyside region's eastern reaches, has been crafting Highland single malt whisky since 1898. The distillery's traditional copper pot stills and commitment to quality shine through in this exclusive bottling, hand-selected by La Maison du Whisky for their milestone anniversary. The Pedro Ximénez sherry cask finishing adds layers of dried fruit sweetness to Ardmore's signature honeyed Highland profile.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Dark chocolate, raisins soaked in sherry, toasted almonds, honey-drizzled figs, warm baking spices
• Palate: Rich Pedro Ximénez sweetness, candied orange peel, Christmas cake spices, roasted coffee beans, Highland heather honey
• Finish: Long and warming with lingering dark chocolate, dried fruits, gentle oak tannins, and a whisper of peat smoke

Product Details

Perfect For

• Contemplative Evening Sipping: Like listening to Pink Floyd's masterpiece, this whisky rewards patient appreciation
• Special Celebrations: A limited edition worthy of milestone moments and meaningful toasts
• Whisky Collector Gatherings: Showcase this rare La Maison du Whisky exclusive at tastings with fellow enthusiasts
• After-Dinner Indulgence: The Pedro Ximénez finish makes it a perfect companion to dark chocolate or aged cheese

Frequently Asked Questions

What does ARTIST #15 The Dark Side of the Moon taste like?

This Highland single malt delivers rich Pedro Ximénez sherry sweetness balanced with Ardmore's signature honey and heather character. Expect dark chocolate, dried fruits, and warming spices, with the high 57% ABV providing intensity without overwhelming the palate. The first-fill PX hogshead finishing adds luxurious depth reminiscent of Christmas pudding and roasted coffee.

Is ARTIST #15 good for cocktails or best enjoyed neat?

This limited edition expression is best savored neat or with a few drops of water to unlock its complex layers. At 57% ABV, it has the strength to handle a splash of water, which will reveal additional nuances from the sherry cask finishing. Given its rarity and premium price point, using it in cocktails would be like using vintage wine for cooking.

How does this compare to other Ardmore expressions?

ARTIST #15 represents Ardmore at its most luxurious, with the Pedro Ximénez sherry finish adding richness not found in the distillery's core range. While regular Ardmore expressions showcase the Highland character with light peat influence, this exclusive bottling emphasizes the sweet, fruity complexity that comes from premium sherry cask maturation and higher proof bottling.

Is this ARTIST #15 worth the investment?

With only 337 bottles produced and the pedigree of La Maison du Whisky's cask selection, this represents both drinking pleasure and collectible value. The combination of 15-year age, first-fill Pedro Ximénez finishing, and cask strength bottling creates a whisky that delivers complexity typically found in much more expensive expressions. Its limited nature makes it a sound choice for collectors.

What makes La Maison du Whisky selections special?

La Maison du Whisky has built a reputation for selecting exceptional casks that showcase distilleries at their finest. Their 15th anniversary bottlings like this ARTIST #15 represent years of expertise in identifying barrels that offer unique character and exceptional quality. Each bottle is individually selected and bottled in Scotland specifically for LMdW, ensuring authenticity and provenance.

You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.