Aberargie Bourbon | Whisky Lady

We are at an interesting inflection point in the whisky industry. Across Scotland, a wave of new distilleries that began construction during the last decade’s boom are finally reaching maturity—bringing their first proper whiskies to market just as global consumption is softening. Perhaps this will be a moment that will separate the merely competent from the genuinely compelling?

That backdrop made our second day at the 2025 London Whisky Show particularly intriguing, when a new Lowland name caught our attention – Aberargie Distillery.

Founded in November 2017, Aberargie has taken a notably patient approach—waiting until March 2026 to release its first official bottling – Aberargie Inaugural Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

In an era when some producers rush young whisky to market, that restraint already says something about them. The team poured us a preview of different experiments, offering a glimpse of both their philosophy and their future style.

Everything we sampled was a teaser of things to come… Our journey began not with mature whisky, but with the spirit itself. A key part of Aberargie’s approach lies in producing two distinct styles of new make, driven by barley variety:

Golden Promise — heavier and richer in character, reminding me of sour fruits like cherry, almost evocative of kirschwasser.
Laureate — cleaner and brighter, with hints of orchard fruits—apples and pears—with a more delicate lift.

That dual-barley approach feels particularly suited to the Lowlands, a region currently enjoying something of a quiet revival after decades of contraction. Historically known for lighter, approachable spirits, the modern Lowlands are increasingly experimenting with fermentation, barley selection, and wood to build layered yet elegant profiles.

From there, we moved into early cask samples—young, yes, but already showing personality.

Aberargie 7 year (2018 – 2025) Golden Promise and Laureate Barley, First Fill Bourbon 48.2%

Surprisingly soft and sweet. Easy on the palate, unmistakably youthful yet lively with gentle spice, closing on a pleasingly sweet finish.

Aberargie Golden Promise and Laureate Barley Sherry 48.2%

Light, juicy, and fruit-forward—red currants and berries on the nose, with layers of whisky-soaked raisins joining on the palate. Delightfully approachable, nicely balanced, and finishing with a subtle herbal lift.

What made the experience particularly enjoyable was the sense of discovery—tasting a new whisky still on its journey rather than at its destination.

It’s always fun to get a glimpse of coming attractions, and after this early look, I’m especially curious to see how Aberargie Distillery expresses itself in its official inaugural release.

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