Ardbeg Anthology The Harpy's Tale 13 Years Old 46% NV

Professional reviews

BOW (88)

Ardbeg Anthology: The Harpy's Tale - A Whisky Symphony of Age, Myth, and Elegance

The windswept shores of Islay have given birth to legends and renowned distilleries, and among them stands Ardbeg—a name synonymous with peaty perfection. In the latest addition to its illustrious lineup, Ardbeg Anthology unveils The Harpy's Tale, a 13-year-old expression bottled on May 11, 2023. This single malt, matured on a symphony of ex-Bourbon and Sauternes casks, promises a sensory journey that intertwines age, myth, and elegance.

A Mythical Prelude:

The Harpy's Tale, named after the mythical winged creatures of folklore, sets the stage for a whisky narrative that transcends the ordinary. With each sip, one is invited to unravel the layers of a tale woven by time and craftsmanship, guided by the spirits of ex-Bourbon and Sauternes casks.

Maturation Alchemy:

The 13 years spent maturing in the embrace of carefully selected casks have bestowed upon The Harpy's Tale a depth and complexity that only time can cultivate. The marriage of ex-Bourbon casks infuses the whisky with a foundation of vanilla and oak, while the Sauternes casks, having previously cradled the sweet nectar of French wine, impart a luscious sweetness and a tapestry of fruit notes.

Tasting Notes:

At 46%, The Harpy's Tale opens with a nose that dances between the familiar Ardbeg peat smoke and a symphony of honeyed sweetness. The palate reveals a balance of maritime saltiness and the rich influence of Sauternes, with apricots, honey, and a hint of citrus playing on the taste buds. The ex-Bourbon casks contribute a subtle vanilla undertone, elevating the overall drinking experience.

Conclusion:

Ardbeg Anthology: The Harpy's Tale is not merely a whisky; it's an embodiment of Islay's mystique, a convergence of myth and craftsmanship. The 13 years of patient maturation, the marriage of ex-Bourbon and Sauternes casks, and the culmination of flavors in each sip tell a tale of age, complexity, and elegance. For those who seek a dram that transcends the ordinary, The Harpy's Tale is an invitation to savor the magic of Islay in every nuanced note.

Words of Whisky (88)

Nose: Opening up on sea spray, and a good amount of peat smoke. Then olive brine and some gentle herbs too – maybe thyme and even some oregano. Very faint though. It’s the sweeter, jammy fruits (apricots mostly) that nicely balance the peat and maritime influences. Just a whiff of sunflower oil, tea leaves and apple compote too.
Taste: Mouthfeel is moderately creamy. There’s a touch of iodine, medicinal peat and some eucalyptus. Surprisingly sweet, even knowing there are Sauternes casks involvement. Stone fruits, apricots. But always with a chargrilled quality. The herbs make an encore. And there are some pine needles here too.
Finish: Medium to long. Damp wood smoke, some coconut and a lingering sweetness. Not necessarily fruity, but more honey-esque. Even some chocolate maybe.

I honestly find it really good. Ardbeg purists might not go for this kind of flavour profile, but the fruity, sweet Sauternes adds exactly the right elements. Of all the sweet dessert wines that are used for whisky, I generally tend to gravitate towards Sauternes anyway, and this Ardbeg Anthology 13 Years – The Harpy's Tale is no exception.