The Islay-based Ardbeg Distillery has announced the launch of a new limited-edition release ahead of its annual day of celebration, Ardbeg Day, on Saturday May 30th, as part of the Islay Festival of Music and Malt (Fèis Ìle).

Ardbeg Dolce (47.8% ABV) is a single malt Scotch whisky created from a marriage of whisky matured in Marsala dolce casks and Bourbon barrels.

This latest release is said to amplify Ardbeg’s “peaty paradox” – its trademark balance of sweetness and smoke. In Ardbeg Dolce, aromas of sun-ripened oranges and apricots set the scene, while flavours of dark chocolate take centre stage alongside hints of olive groves, before giving way to soft smoke and salted nuts.

Held annually on the final Saturday of Islay’s Festival of Music and Malt, Ardbeg Day is a global celebration of all things Ardbeg. This year, smoky malt lovers will embrace la dolce vita (the sweet life) Islay-style. At the distillery and at events worldwide, in tribute to Ardbeg Dolce, fans will rekindle the glamour of 1960s Italian cinema with an Ardbeggian twist.

Commenting on the launch, Gillian Macdonald, Master Blender and Co-Chair of the Ardbeg Committee, said: “Uniting whisky matured in Marsala dolce casks with classic Ardbeg, Ardbeg Dolce is a dramatic blend of Mediterranean sweetness and Islay peat. Sweet notes of apricot, marmalade and dark chocolate rub shoulders with salty, smoky flavours and roasted nutty tones. Enjoy this limited edition in a Sicilian courtyard, on a rain-drenched Scottish island, or wherever you are. We think it’ll be an instant classic.”

Bryony McNiven, Distillery Manager and Committee Co-Chair, added: “For smoky malt lovers, life doesn’t get much sweeter than on Ardbeg Day. And this year, we’re celebrating the sweet life Islay-style. It’s time to dial up the 1960s spirit and enjoy la dolce Islay!”

Ardbeg Dolce will be available from Ardbeg Embassies and specialist retailers from May 30th. Ardbeg Committee members will be able to purchase a bottle via ardbeg.com from May 26th, four days before its official release. RRP: £85.00.