About the product
Ardnamurchan “The Midgie” Release is a limited-edition Highland single malt that showcases the distillery’s signature balance of maritime character and gentle peat influence. Crafted using a mix of peated and unpeated spirit, it reflects a modern approach to traditional Scotch whisky-making.
Matured in a combination of carefully selected casks, this expression delivers a layered and approachable profile. The palate reveals notes of orchard fruit, citrus zest, and honey, complemented by soft smoke, coastal salinity, and a touch of spice. Subtle hints of vanilla and toasted oak add depth without overpowering the freshness.
The texture is smooth and lively, leading to a clean, slightly smoky finish with lingering sweetness and a faint maritime edge.
Playful in name but serious in quality, “The Midgie” Release captures the character of the rugged Scottish Highlands while offering a balanced and versatile whisky suited for both enthusiasts and collectors.
Tasting Profile & Food Pairings
Taste Notes
The Midgie is famous for its "bipolar" nature—meaty and savory on the nose, but exploding with red fruits and chocolate on the palate.
- Nose Unexpectedly savory. It opens with honey-glazed gammon ham and torched pineapple, followed by salted prunes and strawberry jam on a cracker. There is a cooling hint of spearmint and almond oil.
- Palate Rich and fruity. The Port casks take center stage here with dark cherry chocolate brownies and sultanas. This is balanced by salt-baked pears, lemon thyme, and pink peppercorns. The mouthfeel is oily and "clingy."
- Finish Long and "buoyant." It leaves a lingering trail of gentle campfire smoke and redcurrant cordial, with a constant play between Himalayan pink salt and sweetness.
Food Pairings
The Midgie's salt-and-smoke profile makes it an incredible companion for foods that utilize fruit glazes or "char."
- Savory Prosciutto-Wrapped Dates or Glazed Ham. The "gammon ham" notes in the whisky's nose provide a direct flavor bridge to cured meats.
- Main Venison Burgers with a Cranberry Relish. The Port-driven red fruit notes in the dram harmonize perfectly with the tartness of the cranberry.
- Cheese Aged Manchego or Gorgonzola. The salty, crystalline texture of Manchego highlights the "Himalayan salt" finish of the whisky.
- Sweet Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Caramels. The salt-and-sweet duality of the dessert mimics the core philosophy of "The Midgie" blend.
About the brand
Ardnamurchan Distillery, opened in 2014 by the independent bottler Adelphi, is one of Scotland’s most sustainable and remote distilleries. It is powered entirely by local renewable energy (hydro and wood chip). "The Midgie" release is a masterclass in modern Highland blending, designed by Managing Director Alex Bruce to be "lively and persistent," just like the insect it's named after. In 2026, Ardnamurchan is a "darling" of the whisky world, known for a coastal, waxy, and slightly industrial DNA that reminds many of old-school whiskies from the 1970s.
