The swedish High Coast Whisky presents Ådalen III, the second and final release in its Riverboats series. Following the launch of Elfkungen earlier this year, this 13-year-old single malt continues the story of the Ångermanälven river and the vessels that have become part of its history. Matured exclusively in bourbon casks, Ådalen III celebrates the river, the surrounding landscape and the craft of whisky-making in northern Sweden.
The Riverboats series takes its inspiration from Älv, part of High Coast Whisky’s The Origins range, and the distillery’s close connection to the Ångermanälven river. It brings together two vessels from different eras, each with its own place in the region’s story.
While the first release, Elfkungen, combined bourbon and oloroso sherry casks, Ådalen III gives bourbon casks the stage to themselves. Thirteen years of maturation have produced a fruity, elegant whisky that balances the character of the spirit with the sweetness of the oak.
Thirteen Years in Bourbon Casks
Ådalen III is an unpeated single malt, matured entirely in bourbon casks and bottled at 51% ABV.
The nose offers pear, vanilla, coconut and apple blossom. On the palate, gooseberry, creamy toffee, peach and sponge cake lead into a finish with notes of bergamot and white pepper.
The bottling strength allows the fruitiness of the spirit and the bourbon casks’ sweetness to work together in a balanced expression.
A Familiar Sight on the Ångermanälven
The whisky takes its name from the passenger vessel Ådalen III, a familiar presence on the river since her arrival in the region in 1986.
Built in Germany in 1958, the vessel cruises through Sweden’s High Coast landscape, passing High Coast Distillery on her way towards Sandslån. On the return journey to Härnösand, she sails beneath the imposing High Coast Bridge.
Her route follows a waterway that has connected people, communities and industries for generations. It is this relationship between river and region that the Riverboats series sets out to capture.
The Final Chapter in a Wider Story
Riverboats concludes High Coast Whisky’s multi-year exploration of The Origins, following Silent Mills, Harbours Collection and Mountains.
Together, the four series comprise 14 whiskies, telling the story of the distillery’s home through its sawmills, harbours, mountains and riverboats. Ådalen III brings that journey to a close with a whisky rooted in the landscape that inspired it.
High Coast Riverboats Ådalen III launches at Systembolaget in Sweden on 23 October 2026, priced at SEK 799.