Hypernova is Ardbeg’s ‘smokiest’ whisky
Islay-based distillery Ardbeg has bottled its smokiest whisky to date – Ardbeg Hypernova – exclusively for members of the Ardbeg Committee.
Ardbeg Hypernova boasts phenol levels of more than 170ppm (parts per million). The single malt is said to have ‘pungent’ aromas of creosote, soot and tar. The palate is described as having flavours of chocolate, peppermint, peat smoke, almonds, aniseed and clove. The finish brings heavy smoke, roasted coffee and smoked heather. Dr Bill Lumsden, Ardbeg director of distilling and whisky creation, said: “This is without a doubt the smokiest Ardbeg ever. We wanted to really push the boundaries this time and boldly go where Ardbeg has never ventured before. “A hypernova is a collapsing star explosion so powerful it threatens the fabric of the galaxy – while I don’t think this whisky will tear a hole in space and time, it’s certainly bursting with fantastically peaty flavour.” Bottled at 51% ABV, Ardbeg Hypernova is available from October for RRP £190 (US$210). A small number of bottles will be available from the distillery. Colin Gordon, Ardbeg distillery manager, added: “Hypernova turns on the afterburners and hauls our spirit into smoky new depths. “Highly experimental, this whisky is peaty and intense, with a taste that’s totally surreal. This spirit is not just a slice of Ardbeg history, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime event – not to be missed.” In August, Ardbeg teamed up with three artists to create its first sci-fi graphic novel.
