The Glendalough Pot Still Irish Whiskey is a distinctive expression from the Glendalough Distillery, nestled in the Wicklow Mountains of Ireland. Here's a breakdown of what makes it notable:
Key Features:
- Irish Origin: Produced by Glendalough Distillery in County Wicklow, Ireland.
- Style: Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, made from a mash of both malted and unmalted barley, triple-distilled in copper pot stills – a quintessential Irish style.
- Maturation: Initially matured in American oak ex-bourbon barrels to impart softening and sweet notes.
- Cask Finish: Uniquely finished for up to a year in virgin Irish oak casks sourced from the mountains surrounding the distillery. Glendalough takes pride in sustainably sourcing their Irish oak, planting seven saplings for every tree felled.
- ABV: Typically bottled at 43% ABV (86 proof).
- Traceability: Each bottle is often numbered and traceable to the specific cask and even the tree from which the Irish oak originated, highlighting their commitment to transparency and the impact of the wood.
- Non-Chill Filtered: While not always explicitly stated, many premium Irish whiskeys, including Glendalough expressions, are non-chill filtered to retain maximum flavor.
Tasting Notes:
- Nose: Alluring with notes of hawthorn, apple, caramel, ground almond, shortbread, and finely ground pepper. The Irish oak contributes distinct woody and slightly spicy aromas. Some detect a piney and resinous quality with honeyed accents.
- Palate: Gentle and creamy mouthfeel with flavors of caramel, dried apple, and a moderate attack of clove and pepper. Buttery and doughy grain notes emerge, softening the spices and adding depth to the fruit.
- Finish: Long and warming with mild spices and bakery treats. Sweet, vanilla-soaked pears and soft toasted grains linger, with the Irish oak contributing a distinctive woody and slightly earthy character. Some describe a slightly bitter note reminiscent of dark unsweetened cocoa.
Overall Impression:
Glendalough Pot Still Irish Whiskey is a noteworthy expression due to its innovative use of virgin Irish oak for finishing. This adds a distinctive layer of complexity and spice that complements the classic pot still character and the sweetness from the bourbon barrels. It's considered a unique and interesting Irish whiskey that offers a taste of the Irish terroir through its native oak.
