Ardbeg Anthology: The Beithir's Tale - 46%

From the Ardbeg website

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.

*A giant snake-like beast, said to bring misfortune to all who cross its path.

Tasting notes:

Appearance: The colour of an oak aged Chardonnay, forms a thin line which falls slowly as thick, oily legs

Nose: Peat smoke, coastal air, lemon citrus and a touch of creamy vanilla 

Palate: Ashy bonfire smoke, lemon zest, vanilla, mild herbal bitterness and oak spice

Finish: Moderately long and astringent, ashy smoke, black treacle, menthol & eucalyptus lozenges, nutty oak and a tough of ginger warmth

Overall: It’s not a bad whisky, but neither is it particularly complex. Ashy smoke dominates rather than the more expected medicinal peatiness. After that, there’s not a lot else to really hold the attention. 

Current price is £130, this is yet another in the long line of recent Ardbeg limited editions so you expect to pay a premium, but I would want a lot more from a whisky to justify that sort of price. Given the choice between this and the far less expensive Uigeadail or Corryvreckan, I’d take either of those every time.

If you would like more information on this whisky, or the Ardbeg distillery, follow the link to the company website.