Ardbeg's Rare, New Whisky Has a Surprisingly Unique Age Statement

Remember Y2K? Well 24 years later, we’re still here—and so is Ardbeg. Heading into the new millennium, the Islay distillery was on somewhat shaky ground following decades of reduced activity. In 1997, the distillery was saved from extinction a few by Glemorangie and returned to full production in the following couple years. It was around this point that the now LVMH-owned brand distilled the spirit that ended up in Ardbeg Vintage Y2K, which the brand dubs the “first vintage of the millennium.”

Aged in a combination of oloroso sherry casks and bourbon barrels, Ardbeg Vintage Y2K is part of a new series of rare whiskies from the brand. It’s also some of the last liquid made in the still that Ardbeg used for 51 years before retiring it in 2001.

“Ardbeg Vintage Y2K is a phenomenal souvenir of a pivotal year at Ardbeg,” says master distiller Bill Lumsden. “Crafted at the dawn of a new era in our historic still, this ultra-rare whisky has been stowed carefully at the distillery ever since. Herbal, citrusy, and sweet on the nose, before soot, peppermint, and coffee explode on the palate, this retro collectors’ classic is pure Ardbeg nostalgia.”

Pale amber in color, the Scotch offers a mix of herbal and sweet aromas alongside Arbeg’s famed smokiness. The palate is almost sherbet-like with liveliness on the tongue and flavors of toffee, biscuits, peppermint, menthol, and coffee. The long finish lingers with antiseptic lozenges, orange peel, and oak tannins.

Bottled at 46 percent ABV, Ardbeg Vintage Y2K will be available for $839 beginning in July.

Related: Experts Explain What Makes the World’s Best Single Malt Scotch (and What to Look for When Buying)