Wednesday, March 15, 2017

ARDBEG ANNOUNCES THE LAUNCH OF NEW COMMITTEE RELEASE BOTTLING AHEAD OF ARDBEG DAY

Ardbeg has announced the launch of its 2017 limited edition Committee Release bottling, ahead of its annual day of celebration (Ardbeg Day) on the 3rd of June.

Ardbeg Kelpie Committee Release (51.7% ABV) was initially matured in Virgin Black Sea oak casks, before being transferred into ex-bourbon barrels.
Ardbeg Kelpie

This latest limited release form the Islay based distillery, is the first Ardbeg expression to be matured in Virgin Black Sea oak casks.  Renowned for the deep flavours that they impart and rarely used in whisky making, these casks are said to bring a distinct intensity to its smoky whisky.

Dr Bill Lumsden, Ardbeg’s Director of Distilling, Whisky Creation and Whisky Stocks, in his continuing search for intriguing casks, was inspired by the depth of flavour imparted by the Black Sea casks. Grown and seasoned in the Adyghe Republic, which leads down to the Black Sea coast.

As part of this year’s Ardbeg Day festivities, begin on Islay, Committee members and their friends across the world will be invited to join underwater-themed events which pay tribute to the whisky’s namesake – the kelpie, this legendary water demon is said to lurk in the Atlantic Ocean off Islay’s shores.

Commenting on the launch, Michael Heads, Distillery Manager at Ardbeg, said: “Ardbeggians and their smoky malt friends will have the chance to celebrate with a dram or two of Ardbeg Kelpie.  With a heart matured in Black Sea casks, this whisky’s extraordinary depth and its waves of salty seaweed and tarry rope, hint at what might be hiding under the sea.”

He went on to say: “For now, the finer details of our plans for will remain a closely guarded secret, but rest assured Ardbeg Day 2017 will be another legendary worldwide celebration of all things Ardbeg.”

Ardbeg Kelpie Committee Release, will be available exclusively from Ardbeg.com from 9am on March 16th. A general release variant bottled at 46% ABV, will then be available on Ardbeg Day (June 3rd) from Ardbeg Embassies, for a RRP of £98.00.

Posted by Steve Rush