Ardbeg Unveils The Abyss - A 34-Year-Old Masterpiece

The renowned Islay distillery, Ardbeg, proudly announces the release of The Abyss, an extraordinary 34-year-old single malt whisky. This new expression traces its origins back to the limited-edition Ardbeg Corryvreckan, first launched in 2008. The Abyss emerges as a testament to Ardbeg’s dedication to exceptional whisky craftsmanship and innovation.

A Legacy Reimagined

The Abyss finds its roots in the legendary Ardbeg Corryvreckan, which was crafted from 1989 spirit aged initially in bourbon casks before being finished in French oak casks. These casks were heavily toasted to precise specifications, resulting in a unique flavor profile. While most of these exceptional casks were used for the 2008 release, a select few were carefully preserved, giving rise to The Abyss.

Artistry and Innovation

To bring the story of The Abyss to life, Ardbeg collaborated with acclaimed American comic-book artist Tradd Moore. Moore reimagined the legend of the Corryvreckan whirlpool in a captivating graphic novel set on "Planet Ardbeg." This novel accompanies the 400 numbered bottles of The Abyss, making it a collector's item not just for whisky enthusiasts but also for comic book aficionados.

Ardbeg The Abyss offers a complex and enchanting tasting experience. The distillery describes its flavor profile as including toasted marshmallows and tea leaves, with additional notes of dark chocolate, pecan, leather, and creosote. This rich and multifaceted whisky pays homage to the Corryvreckan whirlpool, a natural phenomenon located to the north of Ardbeg’s home on the Scottish island of Islay.

Exclusivity and Availability

Ardbeg The Abyss will be available for purchase starting June 2024. Enthusiasts can acquire this exclusive release through Ardbeg.com, the Distillery Visitor Centre on Islay, and the Moët Hennessy Private Client channel. With only 400 bottles produced, each priced at $27,500 per 750-ml bottle, The Abyss is set to become a highly coveted item for collectors worldwide.

Celebrating Corryvreckan’s Legacy

In addition to The Abyss, Ardbeg will celebrate the legacy of the Corryvreckan with a special release of 1,000 limited edition bottles of the core range Ardbeg Corryvreckan. These bottles will feature label designs by Tradd Moore, with four individual designs available, each taken from a frame in The Abyss’ graphic novel. These unique bottles will be available exclusively from the Distillery Visitor Centre on Islay from June 2024.

Ardbeg The Abyss is more than just a whisky; it is a journey through the rich history and innovative spirit of one of Islay’s most beloved distilleries. With its unique origin story, exceptional flavor profile, and artistic collaboration, The Abyss promises to be a landmark release that will captivate and delight whisky enthusiasts and collectors alike. Don’t miss the opportunity to own a piece of Ardbeg’s legendary legacy.