The Unicorn's Tale, inspired by the fabled Islay unicorn, was launched in 2024 as the second release in Ardbeg's Anthology Collection, a range that will feature ‘experimental’ single malts matured in cask types that are new to the distillery. Aged for 14 years in a combination of ex-bourbon and Malmsey Madeira wine casks. Non-chillfiltered and bottled at 46%.
Nose: Rich, sweet, aromatic and fruity, baked banana bread and syrupy sponge pudding. Notes of treacle with a distinctive whiff of burning cedarwood. A splash of water releases tropical fruits. Eucalyptus oil mingles with soft, aromatic smoke.
Palate: Zesty lime and sweet peaches. A burst of rich smoked fruit and baked bread with antiseptic lozenges, creosote, and aniseed. Soft barley malt combines with nutmeg and peat smoke.
Finish: The influence of the Madeira casks is undeniable. A smoky finish with a long and lingering aftertaste of menthol, clove, wood smoke and camphor.
Overall rating: 5.0 / 5 from 1 reviews.
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"A different (albeit wonderfully so!) side to this Islay stalwart. A syrupy, smoky, tropical fruit bomb that wonderfully balances sweet and smoke. This a left field take on the classic Ardbeg character, yet it’s wonderfully soft, balanced and finessed. Easy drinking, yet with so much complexity. Superb."
— Alex W. (5/5)
