Ardbeg 'The Harpy's Tale' 13 Year Single Malt Scotch

The first release in Ardbeg's new Anthology Series, which seeks to explore new and different cask finishes, The Harpy's Tale is a blend of 13 year old malt aged in ex-bourbon and ex-Sauternes casks and bottled without chill filtration or color added at 92 proof.  Ardbeg's typical (and lovely) scents of sea spray and smoky peat lead the nose before the Sauternes influence adds sweet apricot and fig.  The palate is likewise led by typical Ardbeg notes of iodine rich peat and brine before turning sweet and fruity with notes of grilled peaches and apricots and a touch of vanilla.  On the lengthy finish, wood smoke lingers behind honey sweetness.