Ardbeg, the Islay malt whisky, has won two top awards at the International Spirits Challenge for Ardbeg Galileo, a celebration of its “world first” space maturation experiment. It won Best Launch campaign and Best PR campaign for the release of Galileo, a limited edition whisky released in June 2012.
The whisky, named after Galileo Galilei, the father of modern astronomy, celebrates the first ever experiment undertaken by Ardbeg Distillery (or any other distillery for that matter!) in space. Ardbeg was invited in late 2011 by US-based space research company NanoRacks, based in Houston Texas, to take part in an experiment to test what impact zero gravity has on micro-organic compounds drawn from the distillery’s production on Islay. This experiment will compare the difference in maturation (the inter-action of these compounds with charred oak) between normal gravity on Earth and micro-gravity in space, and is currently taking place on the International Space Station.
Dr Bill Lumsden, Ardbeg’s Director of Distilling and Whisky Creation, explained, “We thought we would celebrate the experiment by the introduction of Ardbeg Galileo – our own earthly tribute to the scientific experiment taking place far up in space! We are over the moon at winning these campaign awards, it has been a privilege to have the opportunity to send Ardbeg molecules in to space and create an expression in its honour.”
Fans of Ardbeg will now be able to stay next to the distillery with the opening of a luxury self-catering home called Seaview Cottage. A 19th Century cottage has been restored at the Islay distillery. Mickey Heads, Ardbeg Distillery Manager, explains, “The house has a lovely relaxed atmosphere with contemporary interiors and stunning views. Lucky visitors to the island will have the opportunity to stay at the home of the Ultimate Islay Malt, in a cottage that is full of Ardbeg history and lore. I hope that everybody who spends time there will feel the same as I do, and will want to return again and again.”
