Distillers of an award-winning single malt whisky are preparing for the future with plans for a new still house, funded by a multi-million-pound investment from The Glenmorangie Company.
Subject to planning approval, the distillery aims to start work this year, for completion in 2019, allowing Ardbeg to produce more of its spirit.
Ardbeg has experienced year-on-year growth since 1997, when the distillery – then closed – was bought by The Glenmorangie Company and reopened.
A larger still house will ensure a steady supply of whisky to meet rising demand for the drink.
Designed to regenerate a site at the heart of the distillery, the traditional-style building will house a total of four of Ardbeg’s trademark copper stills, two more than the distillery currently has.
For all the changes, Ardbeg will remain one of the smallest distilleries on its remote Scottish island home.
Its award-winning whisky will continue to be crafted in the same way as it has been for more than 200 years.
Marc Hoellinger, president and chief executive of The Glenmorangie Company, said: “We are delighted by Ardbeg’s success since 1997 – and by the growing passion for our whisky from fans around the world.
“Ardbeg has been distilled on Islay since 1815 and, with a new still house, we will pave the way for future generations of smoky malt whisky lovers to discover the ultimate Islay malt.”