Ardbeg Launches Anthology Collection With The Harpy’s Tale
Ardbeg has unveiled the Anthology Collection, a range of experimental single malts that will present rare and exceptional Ardbegs, each matured in cask types that are completely new to the distillery.
The inaugural release in the collection – Ardbeg Anthology: The Harpy’s Tale – marries Ardbeg matured for 13 years in classic ex-bourbon casks and sweet Sauternes wine casks to create a hybrid whisky with powerful smoke and rich sweetness. In homage to this hybrid style, its packaging takes inspiration from the fabled half-human and half-bird Harpy – an elusive, winged beast from ancient mythology.
Official tasting notes for Ardbeg Anthology: The Harpy’s Tale follow:
Aroma: Distinctively oily with touches of extra virgin olive oil, sweet briar wood and aromatic herbs, such as coriander and sage, come to the fore. A gentle suggestion of smoked lemon peel appears for a brief moment. A splash of water reveals more oiliness, with linseed oil and an ever so slight waxiness. A burst of perfumed carbolic soap takes flight, leaving behind it a faint whiff of crème brûlée.
Taste: A soft, oily mouthfeel leads the way into a rich, woody sweetness in dark treacle and balsamic. Hints of oak moss break free as smokier notes begin to emerge. Aniseed lozenges, smoked apricots and eucalyptus oil merge in a unique and contrasting patchwork of flavors.
Finish: Finally, a long and lingering aftertaste of sweetness and smoke. A touch of cumin, cardamon and the merest hint of coconut bring this incredible dram to a close.
Ardbeg Anthology: The Harpy’s Tale is bottled at 46% ABV and will be available for purchase on ReserveBar.com, in Ardbeg Embassies, at the Distillery Visitor Center on Islay, and at select retailers for a suggested retail price of $164.99.
Source: Ardbeg.