Ardbeg has unveiled a new series of highly limited-edition vintage whiskies with the launch of Vintage Y2K.
Ardbeg has unveiled a new vintage series with the launch of Vintage Y2K. This is the first edition in a highly-limited series, and was created with some of the first spirit from when the distillery returned to full production in the years 1999-2000. Ardbeg almost shuttered before Glenmorangie bought the distillery in 1997 (both were purchased by LVMH in 2004).
Ardbeg Vintage Y2K was distilled in the still that had been at Ardbeg for 51 years, before being retired in 2001. It matured in Bourbon and oloroso Sherry casks.
“Ardbeg Vintage Y2K is a phenomenal souvenir of a pivotal year at Ardbeg,” says Master Distiller Dr Bill Lumsden. “Crafted at the dawn of a new era in our historic still, this ultra-rare whisky has been stowed carefully at the distillery ever since. Herbal, citrusy and sweet on the nose, before soot, peppermint and coffee explode on the palate, this retro collectors’ classic is pure Ardbeg nostalgia.”
Committee Chair and Distillery Visitor Centre Manager Jackie Thomson adds, “The turn of the millennium was a milestone for Ardbeg in so many ways – not least the formation of our Committee, the lifeblood of Ardbeg. With Y2K fashion and culture now back with a vengeance, we’re inviting Ardbeggians to turn back time to a remarkable year and enjoy the spirit of Ardbeg Vintage Y2K.”
Tasting Notes
The single malt offers aromas of lemon balsam, linseed oil, and heather honey. The palate features soot and peppermint, which stir up memories of ground coffee and aniseed. The lingering reveals antiseptic lozenges, bitter orange peel and oak tannins. Overall, it’s an intensely sweet and classically peaty Ardbeg Scotch.
Bottled at 46% ABV, the whisky will be available for £670 ($839 USD) from July and pre-orders can be made now via the distillery’s website.
Last month, Ardbeg revealed its Feis Ile release, Ardbeg Spectacular, its first single malt aged in port casks.
Late last year, Ardbeg rolled out two other historic whiskies created at pivotal moments in the distillery’s history. The two case set, dubbed Ardbeg The Rollercoaster features whiskies distilled in 1981 when the Distillery closed, and the other in 1989, when it reopened.