Usquaebach Putting Out It’s First New Blend In A Generation, And It’s Cask Strength

Usquaebach Scotch Whisky, (pronounced “oos-ke-bah”) a hand-blended Highlands Scotch imported by family-owned Cobalt Brands, announces the release of its first new blend in nearly 25 years, the Usquaebach An Ard Ri Cask Strength. Translated from Gaelic as “the high king,” the An Ard Ri is a high-proof blend of more than 20 single malt casks, aged between 10 and 21 years.

Carefully crafted by longstanding Usquaebach blenders, Hunter Laing and Co., the An Ard Ri is made with casks from Master Blender Stewart H. Laing’s personal collection. Mr. Laing selected from a range of Highlands whiskies, including Inchgower, Benrinnes, Craigellachie, Glengoyne, Dailuaine, Blair Athol, and Auchroisk. At 57.1% ABV, the finished product is a powerfully complex and structured, yet harmoniously smooth cask strength blend that faithfully maintains Usquaebach’s position as “King of the Blended Whiskies.” On the nose, the An Ard Ri exhibits marzipan, brioche, and burnt orange peel, followed by notes of honey, leather, dried fruits, and brown sugar on the palate.

“When we first began to conceptualize the An Ard Ri with Cobalt Brands nearly two years ago, we set out to create a Scotch whisky that could come to define the increasingly popular blended malt category,” said Stewart Laing, Master Blender. “We’re incredibly proud of the result, and believe it to embody the pinnacle of whisky excellence.”

The 2,000 bottle limited release is packaged in a striking gold and blue variation of Usquaebach’s signature flagon bottle, keeping with the product’s theme of bringing ancient tradition to a modern audience.

“The Usquaebach An Ard Ri is a statement piece that satisfies the palates of modern blended Scotch drinkers, who demand smoothness at a higher proof, and above all else, authenticity,” said Sean Perry, Owner of Cobalt Brands. “With this pure example of highlands malt whisky, we’ve managed to stay true to our Scottish roots while bringing to market a cask strength whisky that can be enjoyed on its own, without the addition of water.”

The Usquaebach An Ard Ri Cask Strength is available at a suggested retail price of $200.00 in all major U.S. markets. The Usquaebach An Ard Ri Cask Strength joins an Usquaebach portfolio that also includes the ‘Old-Rare’ Superior Blended Scotch Whisky, the 15 Year Old ‘Pure’ Malt Scotch Whisky, and the ‘Reserve’ Premium Blended Scotch Whisky.