Ardbeg Dabbles In Sauternes Casks For A New Sweet, Smoky Single Malt

Iconic Islay distillery Ardbeg recently launched the first experimental whisky release in its new Anthology Collection, The Harpy’s Tale.

In a statement from Ardbeg, it’s noted this new expression aged 13 years in a combination of ex-bourbon and former Sauternes wine casks.

And as Ardbeg’s newest whisky creation features a balance of sweet and smoky, the packaging for The Harpy’s Tale reflects this “hybrid” style, taking inspiration from the fabled half-human and half-bird Harpy, the winged beast from ancient mythology.

Iconic Islay distillery Ardbeg recently launched the first experimental whisky release in its new Anthology Collection, The Harpy’s Tale. (image via Ardbeg)

The Harpy’s Tale is actually the first whisky in the distillery’s new Anthology Collection, which the distiller explains is a range of experimental single malts, each matured in cask types that are completely new to the distillery.

Bill Lumsden, director of distilling and whisky creation for Ardbeg, said, “We have embarked on a bold maturation experiment to fuse Ardbeg’s signature smokiness with more nuanced, sweeter notes for our new release. This is a dram that represents a battle between sweet and smoke, one I believe fans are yet to experience in an Ardbeg dram, and one that I’m sure they will be excited to taste for themselves.”

Ardbeg Anthology: The Harpy’s Tale clocks in at 46% ABV, and has a suggested retail price of  $164.99. It will soon be available for purchase on ReserveBar.com, in Ardbeg Embassies, at the Distillery Visitor Center on Islay, and at selected whisky specialists.

For more information on the new whisky, check out www.Ardbeg.com.