The Knappogue Castle 16 Year Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey is a well-regarded expression that builds upon the foundation of their 14-year-old "Twin Wood" release. This whiskey undergoes a two-stage maturation process, spending a significant time in ex-bourbon barrels before being finished in Oloroso sherry casks for a minimum total age of 16 years. This "twin wood" maturation aims to impart a balanced complexity with both bourbon and sherry influences.
Key Features:
- Irish Origin: Produced in Ireland, often sourced from the Cooley Distillery.
- Single Malt: Made from 100% malted barley.
- Age Statement: Aged for a minimum of 16 years.
- Cask Maturation: Initially matured in ex-bourbon barrels and then finished in Oloroso sherry casks.
- Triple Distilled: Following traditional Irish methods.
- ABV: Typically bottled at 40% or 43% ABV (80 or 86 proof), depending on the release.
- Non-Chill Filtered: While not always explicitly stated, it's often the case for premium expressions.
Tasting Notes:
- Aroma: Aromatic, malty, and fruity, often presenting a good balance of vanilla from the bourbon casks and dark chocolate notes. The sherry influence contributes aromas of dried fruits (raisins, figs), nuttiness, and a touch of spice.
- Palate: Deep and complex with a distinct sherry maltiness alongside fruity and slightly sweet notes. Flavors of oak and toffee are common, with hints of dried fruits and sometimes a touch of dark chocolate or caramelized nuts.
- Finish: Long with a pleasant warmth and a lingering sweetness, where the sherry cask influence persists with notes of dried fruit and gentle oak spice.
Overall Impression:
Knappogue Castle 16 Year Old is considered a well-matured and elegant Irish single malt. The extended aging and sherry cask finish contribute to a richer and more complex character compared to its younger siblings in the range. It offers a harmonious marriage of fruit, spice, and sweetness with a noticeable sherry influence.
Awards:
- Gold Medal: Irish Whiskey Awards 2016 (for Irish Single Malts 13 Years and Older).
- Gold Medal: IWSC Spirit Awards 2024.
- Master: Irish Whiskey Masters (The Spirits Business) 2023.
- Bronze Medal: World Whiskies Awards 2025.
