Ardbeg has unveiled Traigh Bhan Batch 5 and the latest edition comes with a curious twist as it heads to sweeter, more tropical waters. The annually released, 19-year-old whisky draws its inspiration from Islay’s Traigh Bhan beach, known locally as the Singing Sands.
Matured in classic Ardbeg ex-bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks, Ardbeg Traigh Bhan Batch 5 offers aromas of fresh green peppers, smoked mango, and guava mingle with maple bacon. A deep smokiness gives way to toasted tonka beans and white pepper on the palate, followed by waves of aniseed, burnt heather, and spiced chive. A long finish brings with it notes of warm toffee fudge and smoked butter.
Each batch of the Ardbeg Traigh Bhan 19 Year Old carries its own unique code, batch symbol and initials from one of the Distillery’s famous faces – this year it’s Gillian Macdonald, Ardbeg’s Master Blender & Head of Whisky Creation, who said: “Ardbeg 19 Years Old Traigh Bhan Batch 5 brings with it a vibrant profile bursting with smoked maple cured bacon, warm toffee, and herbal essence, alongside tropical hints of luscious mango, guava and coconut – a side of this series that fans are yet to experience. We are thrilled to offer whisky lovers and collectors across the globe an opportunity to explore another new take on this impossibly balanced favorite. We hope that this bottling will spark conversations between Ardbeggians and their friends about the finer details of this ever-changing dram.”
Bottled at 46.2% ABV, Ardbeg 19 Years Old Traigh Bhan Batch 5 will be available to buy from whisky specialists, Ardbeg Embassies, online at Reservebar.com, at selected retailers, and from the Ardbeg Distillery for $349.99 per bottle. For more information, head over to the brand’s official website.
While Batch 5 offers sweeter and more tropical notes, Batch 4 delivered flavors of chocolate and raisin, alongside a distinctive menthol character.
Last month, Ardbeg unveiled the first experimental and rare release in its new Anthology Collection, The Harpy’s Tale.