Ardbeg Anthology: The Beithirs Tale

Description

Ardbeg Anthology: The Beithirs Tale 15 Years Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (70cl / 46%)

The final chapter in the Ardbeg Anthology Collection has reared its smoky head. Introducing The Beithir’s Tale, a rare and elusive dram inspired by one of the most fearsome creatures ever said to stalk the Distillery’s shores.

Aged for 15 years in special designer charred bourbon casks, these barrels have been air-seasoned, heavily toasted, and then lightly charred.

This whisky is inspired by the tale of the Beithir – a fearsome serpent that slithered into the Distillery (or so the story goes). Spotted among the barrels, it had three prized casks lodged in its belly. Charmed away by an enchanting melody piped from a chanter, the hypnotised beast fled into the Atlantic, leaving the barrels bobbing on the waves.

This bold dram crackles with notes of peat smoke, treacle, coffee grits, citrus and spice. Long, meandering flavours of vanilla and smoked butter burst forth in a finish that slithers across the palate and sings to the senses.

Already an award-winner, The Beithir’s Tale has received Gold at both the International Spirits Challenge and the International Wine and Spirit Competition.

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Pungent, oily and spicy. Rich notes of treacle wrap around creosote and smoked herbs. Toasted apples and raisins reveal a sweeter underbelly. With water, eucalyptus and menthol burst forth as fennel and pine trail behind.

Taste: Astoundingly balanced. A sizzling mouthfeel leads into peat smoke, coffee grounds and currants. Sweet lemon balm entwines with smoked mandarins, followed by a sharp, smoky tang.

Finish: Long and meandering, with subtle hints of vanilla and smoked butter.