Ardbeg Anamorphic was developed by Dr. Bill Lumsden, inspired by the optical technique of anamorphosis — where an object's true form is only revealed from the right angle. In production, conventional ex-bourbon casks had their lids removed and the inner staves deeply scored before being burnt to a 'high mocha' char level, increasing the surface area of active wood in contact with the spirit and driving intense toasted oak and roasted espresso character. The expression was released as a Committee release before a wider general release, bottled at 48.2% ABV without chill filtration and without colouring. The whisky genuinely transforms with water addition — reflecting the anamorphic concept.

Ardbeg Distillery was established in 1815 on the south coast of Islay, Scotland's most southerly whisky island, where Atlantic-exposed peat bogs define the landscape and flavour. The distillery is among the most heavily peated in Scotland, with spirit typically reaching around 55 parts per million of phenol. After a difficult period of closure from 1981, Ardbeg was reopened in 1989 and acquired by Glenmorangie Company in 1997, subsequently coming under LVMH ownership. Today the distillery has a fiercely loyal global following through the Ardbeg Committee, a member community of over one million enthusiasts. Islay's damp coastal air and mineral-rich water from Loch Uigeadail contribute to Ardbeg's distinctive medicinal, smoky, and maritime character.