Ardbeg has unveiled the first release in its new experimental Anthology Collection – Ardbeg Anthology: The Harpy's Tale.

The new 13-year-old whisky has been aged in a combination of ex-bourbon and sweet Sauternes wine casks, which the Islay distillery brings a new dimension to its peated spirit. It has paid homage to this mixing of styles in the name of the expression – the harpy being an ancient mythological creature that is half human, half bird. 

The Harpy's Tale is the inaugural release in Ardbeg's new Anthology Collection, which will comprise experimental single malts matured in casks that have not been used in previous distillery releases.

Dr Bill Lumsden, Ardbeg's director of distilling and whisky creation, said: “We have embarked on a bold maturation experiment to fuse Ardbeg’s signature smokiness with more nuanced, sweeter notes for our new release The Harpy’s Tale – resulting in a very unusual and complex breed of Ardbeg. This is a dram that represents a battle between sweet and smoke – one I believe fans are yet to experience in an Ardbeg dram, and one that I’m sure they will be excited to taste for themselves.

“Collectively, the whiskies in the Anthology Collection will form a legendary, perfectly balanced and delicious series of rare and unusual Ardbegs, rich in both lore and taste.”

Ardbeg Anthology: The Harpy's Tale (46% ABV) will be available for purchase at ardbeg.com, in Ardbeg Embassies, at the distillery visitor centre on Islay, and in selected whisky specialists, priced at £141.