INDIA. LVMH-owned Moët Hennessy has partnered with Ospree Duty Free to celebrate Ardbeg Day at Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, with the launch of the limited-edition Ardbeg Spectacular whisky.
One of the biggest annual events in the whisky calendar, Ardbeg Day is described as a global celebration of all things Ardbeg. It is held on the final Saturday of Islay’s Festival of Music and Malt (Fèis Ìle) each May.
The first Ardbeg Day celebration in India and travel retail featured a colourful circus-themed activation in honour of the Islay single malt Scotch whisky brand. The vibrant animation, which runs throughout June, includes entertainment, spin the wheel giveaways and a chance to win a trip to Islay as a grand reward.
The promotional partnership between the brand and Ospree Duty Free also shone the spotlight on the Ardbeg Spectacular.
Joining Moët Hennessy India’s extensive portfolio, the latest expression is a premium single malt scotch whisky described by Ardbeg Master Blender Gillian Macdonald as “a high-flying spirit”.
It is characterised by a strong flavour profile with notes of mint chocolate, incense, lavender and smoked nuts, complemented by salted caramel and tar.
Ardbeg Spectacular is the distillery’s first whisky to be matured in port wine casks before a final maturation in classic bourbon barrels.
The latest limited-expression whisky is now available at Ospree Duty Free for an RRP of INR11,100 (US$133).
Ospree Duty Free CEO Avishek Bambii Das said: “We are honoured and excited to host the inaugural Ardbeg Day Travel Retail celebration at Ospree Duty Free, Mumbai.
“Ardbeg is renowned as one of the most distinguished whiskies, and the opportunity to feature their Dark Circus event at our store is truly exciting. This event offers travellers a unique and memorable experience, aligning perfectly with our commitment to providing exceptional offerings.
“We are proud to be the chosen venue for the first-ever travel retail Ardbeg Day in India and look forward to welcoming guests with great zeal and enthusiasm throughout June.”
Moet Hennessy India Marketing Director Smriti Sekhsaria added: “We are delighted to bring Ardbeg Day celebrations to India, for the very first time in travel retail. Ardbeg has a strong base of loyalists in the country, and we are thrilled to bring to them a wonderful flavour adventure with Spectacular.
“Join us for a smoky Ardbeg adventure throughout June in our Dark Circus at Ospree Duty Free, Mumbai International Airport where Ardbeg enthusiasts and curious travellers can expect to cartwheel into a whirlwind of smoky wonder.” ✈
