Moët Hennessy-owned Ardbeg distillery has unveiled The Unicorn’s Tale, the second expression in its Anthology Collection of unique single malts.
Continuing the Anthology Collection
Following the inaugural expression, The Harpy’s Tale, released in August 2023, The Unicorn’s Tale continues Ardbeg’s exploration of rare and unusual single malts. The Anthology Collection blends classic Ardbeg expressions with experimental stock to create new and intriguing flavor combinations, each named after mythological creatures to reflect their unique ‘hybrid’ styles.
Distinctive Flavor Profile
The Unicorn’s Tale has been aged for 14 years in Malmsey Madeira wine and Bourbon casks, resulting in a complex flavor profile with aromatic and sweet notes of smoke, banana, menthol, and lime.
Innovative Aging Process
“The Unicorn’s Tale is the second release in this series, created by marrying classic Ardbeg matured in Bourbon casks with a parcel of whisky wholly matured in sweet Madeira wine casks,” explained Dr. Bill Lumsden, director of whisky creation at Ardbeg distillery. “The outcome is a whisky bursting with notes of banana bread and tropical fruit fused with Ardbeg’s hallmark flavors of camphor, lime zest, and wood smoke. This 14-year-old whisky may appear sweet in nature, but its smoky side is not to be underestimated.”
Availability and Pricing
Bottled at 46% ABV, The Unicorn’s Tale is available for purchase on the distillery’s website, at the visitor’s center in Islay, and selected retailers. It is priced at £130 (US$164).
Commitment to Innovation
“At Ardbeg, we love to experiment with how we can push our spirit’s smoky balance into new worlds of flavor,” added Lumsden. “Some time ago, we decided to try maturing Ardbeg in unusual cask types to create sweet and smoky ‘hybrids’—and so the Anthology Collection was born.”
