The Story
Usquaebach 'An Ard Ri' Cask Strength Blended Malt Scotch Whisky is a masterwork of artisanal blending, aptly named "The High King" in Gaelic. This exceptional spirit is a harmonious marriage of over 20 single malt whisky casks meticulously selected from the Scottish Highlands, with the oldest malts aged up to 21 years. Presented in a striking gold and blue iteration of Usquaebach's iconic ceramic flagon, this limited-production release is bottled at a powerful cask strength of 57.1% ABV. The final blend is finished in exquisite sherry casks, adding a sophisticated layer of depth and structure that captures the true essence of the Highlands without the addition of grain whiskies to soften its regal power.
The sensory journey begins with an evocative nose of raw cacao, toasted almonds, and dark cherries, underpinned by subtle notes of freshly baked pastries and a hint of smoke. Upon the palate, this full-bodied whisky unfolds with a complex tapestry of dark fudge, worn leather, and sherried wood, offering a rich and velvety texture that is as profound as it is refined. The experience concludes with a luxurious, lingering finish of dark chocolate and hazelnut praline, accented by delicate spices and sweet oak. Best enjoyed neat in a proper nosing glass with a few drops of purified water, 'An Ard Ri' stands as a testament to the artistry of small-batch spirits and the timeless heritage of one of Scotland's oldest whisky names.
Description
Usquaebach 'An Ard Ri' Cask Strength Blended Malt Scotch Whisky is a masterwork of artisanal blending, aptly named "The High King" in Gaelic. This exceptional spirit is a harmonious marriage of over 20 single malt whisky casks meticulously selected from the Scottish Highlands, with the oldest malts aged up to 21 years. Presented in a striking gold and blue iteration of Usquaebach's iconic ceramic flagon, this limited-production release is bottled at a powerful cask strength of 57.1% ABV. The final blend is finished in exquisite sherry casks, adding a sophisticated layer of depth and structure that captures the true essence of the Highlands without the addition of grain whiskies to soften its regal power.
The sensory journey begins with an evocative nose of raw cacao, toasted almonds, and dark cherries, underpinned by subtle notes of freshly baked pastries and a hint of smoke. Upon the palate, this full-bodied whisky unfolds with a complex tapestry of dark fudge, worn leather, and sherried wood, offering a rich and velvety texture that is as profound as it is refined. The experience concludes with a luxurious, lingering finish of dark chocolate and hazelnut praline, accented by delicate spices and sweet oak. Best enjoyed neat in a proper nosing glass with a few drops of purified water, 'An Ard Ri' stands as a testament to the artistry of small-batch spirits and the timeless heritage of one of Scotland's oldest whisky names.
