Located on the south coast of Islay near the town of Port Ellen, Ardbeg is the first distillery you see when taking the ferry over from the
mainland. Ardbeg began commercial distilling officially in 1815 and was primarily used in blends. The distillery operated under various owners until production was ultimately halted in 1981. Remaining shuttered for nearly two decades, Ardbeg was finally purchased by Glenmorangie PLC (who were eventually absorbed by French drinks giant Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessey) and re-opened in 1997. Full capacity distillation started in 1998.