Ardbeg BizarreBQ | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Isle of Islay, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: This whisky is matured in a combination of double charred oak casks, Pedro Ximenez (PX) sherry casks, and unique barbecue casks. The barbecue casks are specially burned to create a deep char, reminiscent of the alligator char used in a previous Ardbeg release, which contributes to the whisky's unique flavor profile.
Age Statement: Not specified.
ABV: Bottled at 50.9%.
Color and Clarity: The color suggests a significant influence from the PX sherry casks, though specific descriptions of color and clarity are not provided.
Bottle Design: Features a grill with the top lid and smoke rising, along with a DJ BBQ sticker, highlighting its barbecue inspiration.

Balance of Flavors: A complex balance of smoky, spicy, and sweet notes, with a significant influence from the unique maturation process.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky offers a feast of aromas and flavors, including hickory smoked ham, grilled antichoke, flamed steak, and cinnamon-dusted espresso. The use of double charred oak and barbecue casks adds a distinctive smoky and charred character, while the PX sherry casks contribute a layer of sweetness.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, the unique maturation process and flavor profile set it apart from traditional Islay whiskies.

Collaboration: The creation of BizarreBQ involved collaboration between Ardbeg's Master Distiller Bill Lumsden and Christian Stevenson, aka DJ BBQ, a renowned figure in the barbecue world.
Inspiration: This is Ardbeg's first-ever barbecue-inspired whisky, drawing on the flavors and experiences associated with barbecuing.

Islay Whisky Tradition: Ardbeg continues to innovate within the rich tradition of Islay whisky-making, introducing unique concepts like the barbecue-inspired BizarreBQ.
Barbecue Influence: The collaboration with DJ BBQ and the focus on barbecue flavors highlight a cultural fusion between traditional Scotch whisky and global barbecue traditions.

"This mouth-watering malt was cooked up by master distiller Bill Lumsden." - Highlighting the creative process behind the whisky.
"Extreme. That's stronger than I guessed." - Commenting on the whisky's robust flavor and high ABV.

Ardbeg BizarreBQ is a unique, barbecue-inspired single malt Scotch whisky from the Isle of Islay.
Matured in double charred oak, PX sherry, and special barbecue casks, contributing to its complex flavor profile.
Features flavors of hickory smoked ham, grilled antichoke, flamed steak, and cinnamon-dusted espresso.
Collaboration between Ardbeg's Master Distiller Bill Lumsden and Christian Stevenson (DJ BBQ).
Represents a fusion of traditional Islay whisky-making and barbecue culture.
Noted for its strong, smoky, and spicy character, with a hint of sweetness from the PX sherry casks.

For the Adventurous Drinker: Those looking to explore unique, innovative whisky flavors beyond traditional profiles.
Islay Whisky Enthusiasts: Fans of Islay whiskies interested in experiencing a new take on the region's characteristic smoky whiskies.
Barbecue Lovers: Individuals who appreciate the art of barbecuing may find the concept and flavors of this whisky particularly appealing.
Collectors: Given the unique concept and limited availability, collectors may be interested in acquiring a bottle for their collection.