Kilbeggan Traditional Irish Whiskey

Kilbeggan Blended Irish Whiskey is the entry-level and flagship blend from the Kilbeggan Distilling Company, which holds the title of the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in Ireland, dating back to 1757. This blend offers a classic Irish whiskey experience.   

Key Features:

• Irish Origin: Produced at the Kilbeggan Distillery, County Westmeath, Ireland.   
• Blend: A blend of grain and malt Irish whiskeys. Notably, unlike many Irish whiskeys that are triple distilled, Kilbeggan Blended Irish Whiskey is double distilled.   
• Maturation: Primarily matured in ex-bourbon barrels.   
• ABV: Typically bottled at 40% ABV (80 proof).   

Tasting Notes (based on various sources):

• Nose: Presents aromas of sweet caramel, vanilla, and toasty wood. Some detect hints of citrus, honey, and a touch of green notes.   
• Palate: Offers a soft and silky entry leading to sweet flavors of golden raisin and caramel, balanced by a peppery spice. Some find notes of malt, apple, and a creamy texture.   
• Finish: Described as creamy with vanilla and toasty wood notes lingering. It's generally considered smooth with a moderate sweetness and a slightly drying oakiness.   

Overall Impression:

Kilbeggan Blended Irish Whiskey is a traditional and approachable Irish blend known for its smooth character and balance of sweetness and spice. Its double distillation sets it apart from many other Irish whiskies. It's considered a versatile option that can be enjoyed neat, with water, or as a base for cocktails.   

Awards (based on various sources):

While specific awards for the core Kilbeggan Blended Irish Whiskey can vary, the Kilbeggan distillery and its whiskies have received recognition over the years. This includes:

• Gold Medal: International Spirits Challenge (various years).
• "Best Irish Blended Whisky" awards at the World Whiskies Awards for other expressions in the Kilbeggan range (like the 18 Year Old).
• Recognition at the Irish Whiskey Awards.

History:

The Kilbeggan Distillery has a rich history dating back to 1757. It was founded by Matthias McManus and later run by the Codd and Locke families. Despite facing challenges like the Temperance movement and Irish independence, it continued operating until 1957 when it was shut down. In 1987, the Teeling family (of Cooley Distillery) acquired Kilbeggan with the aim of restoring it. Distilling resumed at Kilbeggan in 2007, marking a significant revival for the historic distillery. The distillery even boasts the world's oldest working pot still.