Following the recent launch of Ardray, The MAINE Mayfair hosted a tasting event at their London townhouse restaurant to celebrate a new Japanese interpretation of Scotch whisky.
Ardray, meaning ‘towards the light’ is a spiritual reference to Shinjiro Torii, the founder of the Japanese beverage company Suntory. A century ago, he envisioned a philosophy of whisky making based on monozukuri craftsmanship – the meticulous attention to detail in the relentless pursuit of perfection. Inspired by the traditions of Scotch whisky, Torii-San created a subtle yet refined whisky that suited the delicate palate of the Japanese.
The father of Japanese whisky’s journey has now come full circle with Ardray. By applying the precision and artistry found in Japanese blending techniques to traditional Scotch whisky, Suntory has developed a blend that not only honours Torii-San’s original pursuit, but as a premium brand its distribution will make it more accessible. This was the inspiration behind Ardray – Torii-San longed to create a global product to sell into different markets worldwide, but was not able to realise this dream in his lifetime.
What’s in Ardray?
The blend is made from a selection of malt and grain whiskies, sourced from a handful of the finest Scottish distilleries belonging to Beam Suntory. These include Laphroaig, Bowmore, Ardmore and Glen Garioch, and from their partner Edrington: The Macallan, The Glenrothes and Highland Park.
Tasting Notes
The careful balancing of complex flavours was key to creating Ardray. Calum Fraser, the chief blender collaborated with the award-winning Suntory blending team to devise a recipe based on mixing both old and new blend styles; this included more characterful malts to give a ‘new, refreshing and exciting’ taste.
The recipe is adjusted according to the characteristics of the oak casks. The casks also provide the blend’s distinctive natural golden amber colour. The harmony of flavours provides various floral, citrus, and vanilla notes, finishing with an aftertaste that’s sweet, smoky, and spicy with hints of white pepper and oregano. The aroma includes hints of apple, plum, pear, clementine, and oregano.
Off-the-rocks
The question of whether to enjoy Ardray with or without ice can be resolved by drinking it off-the-rocks. Simply pour the blend over a strainer containing ice for eight-seconds into your Scotch glass to achieve the optimal level of dilution and chill. The Scotch whisky can also be enjoyed as part of a cocktail such as those enjoyed at The MAINE Mayfair. For example, if you prefer your cocktails sweet, why not try the Artist – Ardray is mixed with lemongrass infused sake, matcha and coconut. Or for a bitter tasting imbibe, choose Muse – rosé vermouth, jasmine liquor, and sherry bitters mixed with the Scotch blend.
The resurgence of blended whiskies
Ardray raises the profile of premium blends; Scotch has been overlooked when compared with its single malt cousins; however, there appears to be a resurgence of blends, largely due to the curiosity of whisky drinkers wanting to explore new tastes.
The launch of Ardray is timely and the homage to Torii-San is fitting – Kampai and Slàinte Mhath!
To discover more, visit: Ardray.com
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All imagery courtesy of Edrington / Suntory.