From Scotland's renowned Islay whisky distillery, Ardbeg, comes a special limited edition whisky, "Ardbeg Y2K 23 Years Old," available in limited quantities. The release date is Wednesday, October 23, 2024.

Ardbeg is known for its intense peat and smokiness, garnering fervent support from fans who call themselves "Ardbegans." Ardbeg whiskies are particularly prized by enthusiasts worldwide for their unique flavour profile, earning them the affectionate nickname "Peaty Paradox."

"Ardbeg Y2K 23 Years Old" is a whisky based on rare spirit distilled in 2000, symbolizing the distillery's revival. This spirit has been matured for 23 years in ex-bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks, characterized by its distinctive flavour and high-quality finish. The spirit distilled in 2000 was produced in a historic pot still that had been in use for 51 years, making this a precious expression where Ardbeg's tradition and innovation converge.

The year 2000 was a time of significant change, marked by the "Y2K bug" and various shifts related to digitalization. For Ardbeg, 2000 represented a period of revival following its acquisition by The Glenmorangie Company, a crucial year that saw the distillery renovated and re-established. The spirit created during this time is positioned as a special whisky, part of the "Ardbeg Y2K" series, connecting Ardbeg's history with the dawn of a new era.

The appearance of "Ardbeg Y2K 23 Years Old" is a pale amber. Its aroma offers herbal, sweet, and toasty notes, with hints of linseed oil, candied walnuts, and lemon balm. Upon dilution, notes of heather honey, creosote, and a subtle hint of tarpaulin emerge. On the palate, it presents a lively texture, with intense sweetness unfolding into aniseed, toffee, digestive biscuits, peppermint, menthol, and freshly ground coffee. This is followed by flavours of tar and soot, leading to a finish with notes of medicinal lozenges, bitter orange peel, and oak tannins.

Dr. Bill Lumsden, Director of Distillation and Whisky Creation, commented: "Ardbeg Y2K 23 Years Old is a symbol of an incredibly important and commemorative year for Ardbeg. This ultra-rare whisky, crafted in a historic still at the dawn of a new era, has been lovingly preserved at the distillery ever since. From its herbal and sweet citrus aromas to the explosion of soot, peppermint, and coffee on the palate, this retro collector's classic is Ardbeg nostalgia itself."

Ardbeg Y2K 23 Years Old
Price | ¥121,000
Volume | 700ml
ABV | 46%
Maturation Casks | Ex-bourbon casks, Oloroso sherry casks
Sales Channels |Ardbeg Committee Stores, Liquor retailers nationwide