Artist #15 "Something In The Water" is a 25-year-old Islay single malt Scotch whisky from Ardbeg Distillery, bottled at cask strength 55.4% ABV by independent bottler Elixir Distillers. This exceptional expression was distilled in 2000 and matured for a quarter-century in an Oloroso sherry butt, creating one of only 294 bottles from cask #110000006.

From the windswept shores of Islay comes this rare treasure, where Ardbeg's legendary peat smoke meets the rich complexity of Spanish sherry wood. Elixir Distillers, renowned for their meticulous cask selection, has chosen this singular barrel to commemorate their 15th anniversary, capturing the essence of what makes Islay whisky so revered—the marriage of maritime influence, ancient peat, and time's patient alchemy.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Coastal peat smoke, dark chocolate, dried figs, medicinal herbs, sea spray
• Palate: Intense smoke, Oloroso sherry richness, roasted coffee beans, salted caramel, leather
• Finish: Long and warming with lingering peat ash, dark fruit, and maritime minerals

Product Details

Perfect For

• Contemplative Evenings: Savoring neat by the fireside with its complex layers of peat and sherry
• Special Celebrations: Marking milestone moments with this anniversary release
• Whisky Connoisseurs: Adding a rare Ardbeg expression to distinguished collections
• Storm Watching: Experiencing Islay's wild character from the comfort of home

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Elixir Distillers Artist #15 taste like?

This 25-year-old Ardbeg delivers intense Islay peat smoke balanced by rich Oloroso sherry influence, creating flavors of dark chocolate, dried fruits, roasted coffee, and maritime minerals. The long maturation has mellowed the distillery's signature medicinal character while amplifying its complexity.

Is this whisky good for cocktails?

At 55.4% ABV and with such rare provenance, this expression is best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to unlock its full complexity. Using it in cocktails would mask the intricate interplay between Ardbeg's peat smoke and the sherry cask influence developed over 25 years.

How should I drink Artist #15 Something In The Water?

Serve neat in a Glencairn glass at room temperature, allowing 10-15 minutes for the whisky to open up. Add a few drops of water if desired to reduce the proof and reveal additional aromatic compounds. The high ABV carries intense flavors that reward patient sipping.

Is this Ardbeg worth the investment?

As one of only 294 bottles from a single cask, this represents exceptional value for collectors seeking rare Islay expressions. The 25-year age statement from Ardbeg, combined with Elixir Distillers' reputation for cask selection, makes this a significant addition to any serious whisky collection.

What makes this different from regular Ardbeg releases?

Unlike Ardbeg's standard 10-year expressions, this independent bottling offers 25 years of maturation exclusively in an Oloroso sherry butt, creating deeper fruit and chocolate notes alongside the signature peat smoke. The single cask strength bottling preserves the whisky's full intensity without chill filtration.

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