Whisky World

With Richard Elias

- 

ARDBEG Islay single malt has unveiled an aromatic and creamy 15-year-old limited edition - the finale to its 'Anthology' series of rare single malts.

Named after a mythological, serpent-like beast, The Beithir's Tale is the distillery's first whisky matured in designer bourbon casks, to create full-bellied flavours of smoked butter and vanilla balanced by Ardbeg's hallmark smoky tones and sharp tangs of eucalyptus and pine.

The Anthology range is a trilogy of single malts that cross classic Ardbeg with experimental stock to create sweeter, more delicate tones. Each one's name and packaging is inspired by a mythological creature said to have been glimpsed on Islay. According to legend, the bad-tempered beithir may have once slithered through an Ardbeg warehouse.

A parcel of Ardbeg was laid in the bespoke casks that promised fuller, creamier flavours, air-seasoned rather than kiln-dried - and heavily toasted and lightly charred. Subsequently matured for 15 years, the experiment has reached a sweet and aromatic peak.