The Knappogue Castle 21 Year Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey is a limited-edition expression that represents a marriage of two carefully selected single malts. Both were distilled in copper pot stills and matured exclusively in ex-bourbon casks, one for 23 years (filled in 1994) and the other for 21 years (filled in 1996) before being blended together.
Key Features:
- Irish Origin: Produced in Ireland.
- Single Malt: Made from 100% malted barley.
- Age Statement: A blend of 21 and 23-year-old single malts.
- Cask Maturation: Exclusively matured in first-fill ex-bourbon barrels.
- Triple Distilled: Following traditional Irish methods in copper pot stills.
- ABV: Bottled at 46% ABV (92 proof).
- Non-Chill Filtered: Yes, to retain more of its natural flavors and texture.
Tasting Notes:
- Nose: Presents aromas of orchard fruits in the foreground, accompanied by rich pastry notes accented with subtle hints of clove and baked apple spices. Toasted oak adds further character to the background aromas. Some detect notes of baked bread, brioche, and vanilla, evolving into bread pudding, candied apple, and banana bread.
- Palate: Described as soft and mellow with further depth and complexity resulting from the long maturation in oak, exhibiting a malty richness throughout. You might find flavors of vanilla, malt, mango, and grilled sweet pineapple, with the fruity notes dominating towards the end.
- Finish: Lingering, with delicate barley cereal notes fanning over the palate. Some experience a long finish with lots of tropical fruit flavors, particularly pineapple lingering on the tongue, and a mature banana note emerging after a few minutes.
Overall Impression:
Knappogue Castle 21 Year Old is considered a well-matured and complex Irish single malt that beautifully showcases the influence of long-term bourbon cask aging. It offers a delightful balance of fruit, sweetness, and subtle spice, with a smooth and elegant character.
Awards:
- Double Gold: San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2023, 2024).
- Double Gold: International Spirits Challenge (2024).
- Double Gold: New York World Spirits Competition (2024).
- Master: Irish Whiskey Masters (The Spirits Business) 2023.
- Rated 96 Points by Tastings.com.
