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Buried In A Peat Bog, Ardbeg Unveils “Groundbreaking” Whisky

Ardbeg just released what they are calling a “groundbreaking,” limited edition whisky … Ardbeg Fon Fhòid (Scots Gaelic for ‘under the turf’).

In a prepared statement from Ardbeg, distillers explained that this is Islay’s first subterranean single malt, buried in a peat bog for more than two years. And the new expression is the brand’s inaugural NFT (non-fungible token) edition.

The earthy, mossy and herbal Ardbeg will be available exclusively at BlockBar.com.

Ardbeg Fon Fhòid
Ardbeg Fon Fhòid (image via Ardbeg)

Established in 1815, Ardbeg is known as one of the peatiest, smokiest and most complex of all the Islay malts. The idea of taking the smoky spirit back to its peaty roots came from the mind of Ardbeg’s director of whisky creation, Dr. Bill Lumsden.

In 2014, the idea churned, and Ardbeg’s team, led by then-Distillery Manager Mickey Heads, took two casks of whisky aged in second-fill bourbon casks and buried them in a peaty location near the distillery.

Two years and 10 months later, they unearthed Ardbeg Fon Fhòid.

The limited release of 456 bottles is available to purchase exclusively on BlockBar.com starting at 10 a.m. EST on April 19th. Those that get a bottle will receive a digital certificate that verifies their ownership and the authenticity of the bottle, which will be stored at BlockBar’s facility in Singapore until redeemed.

The buyer can also choose to trade their NFT within the BlockBar.com marketplace, keep it in their virtual bar, or gift the NFT through BlockBar’s gifting platform.

“I think it’s safe to say we’ve unearthed a truly special Ardbeg here. Ardbeg Fon Fhòid is earthy and mossy with one hell of a herbal nose,” Lumsden said. “Good luck to all those hoping to secure some of Ardbeg’s own buried treasure – I hope you land a bottle.”

Thomas Moradpour, president and CEO of The Glenmorangie Company, which owns Ardbeg Distillery, said, “We’re so excited to be launching this exclusive and first NFT release from Ardbeg, one of the world’s most collectable whiskies. Our whisky makers are always pushing the boundaries of experimentation, this is a chance to own one of their most intriguing creations to date, a true piece of Ardbeg history.”

Dov Falic, CEO and co-founder of BlockBar, said his team is “delighted to be partnering with the iconic Ardbeg Distillery to launch its first ever NFT. We hope whisky fans new and old will take the opportunity to join our community and discover this peaty experiment, which BlockBar will keep in perfect condition until the owners are ready to enjoy it.”

Ardbeg Fon Fhòid distiller’s notes:

  • Aroma: Pungent, waxy and salty with a curious, but distinctive, mossy note. This is then followed by a hint of molasses or sugarcane. There is also a background musty/earthy note, like walking into a damp whisky warehouse. A splash of water releases some more herbal notes, almost like asparagus or artichoke. Next comes a waxy, oily fragrance, reminiscent of a freshly waxed jacket along with a distinctive soapy aroma.
  • Taste: A slightly drying mouthfeel is followed by some savory notes, like grilled artichoke and ground pepper, along with a suggestion of rye bread. The classic Ardbeg smokiness is subdued, but always in the background, coming across as tar-coated fennel.
  • Finish: Bold and slightly drying, with a distinctive bacon saltiness.
  • Casks: Second-fill bourbon
  • ABV: 45.5%
  • Color: Pale straw
  • Price: 1 ETH (crypto currency)

For more information, check out www.ardbeg.com.

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