The McConnell's 5 Year Irish Whisky is a blended Irish whisky that marks the revival of a historic Belfast brand dating back to 1776. After disappearing in the 1930s due to Prohibition and other factors, the McConnell's name was resurrected, with this 5-year-old expression being a key part of its comeback. The whisky is a blend of Irish malt and grain whiskies, aged for a minimum of five years in select ex-bourbon casks.
Key Features:
- Irish Origin: Produced in Ireland and bottled by the Belfast Distillery Company. The initial distillate is sourced from the Great Northern Distillery while the Belfast Distillery matures its own spirit.
- Blend: A blend of single malt and single grain Irish whiskies.
- Age Statement: Aged for a minimum of 5 years.
- Cask Maturation: Matured in first-fill ex-bourbon barrels.
- ABV: Typically bottled at 42% or 43% ABV.
- Non-Chill Filtered: While not always explicitly stated, some sources suggest minimal intervention.
Tasting Notes:
- Nose: Often described as having bright citrus notes, peppered spice, and vanilla undertones. Some detect honey, floral hints, cedar, and sweet spice.
- Palate: Smooth and approachable with flavors of earthy fruits, butterscotch, and vanilla sweetness from the bourbon casks. White pepper and a gentle oak woodiness are also common descriptors. Some find notes of golden raisin, red apple, and a touch of tropical fruit.
- Finish: Generally sweet and spicy with lingering oak and ripe fruit notes. Some describe a clean and refreshing finish with a light, lingering sweetness and a subtle warmth.
Overall Impression:
McConnell's 5 Year Old Irish Whisky is generally considered a smooth, well-balanced, and approachable blend that offers good value. The ex-bourbon cask maturation contributes classic vanilla and sweet notes, with a touch of spice and fruit. It's seen as a versatile whisky suitable for sipping neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails.
Awards:
- Master: The Spirits Business Irish Whiskey Masters 2024 (Blended - Premium).
- Gold Medal: London Spirits Competition 2023.
- Gold Medal: San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
- Gold Medal: Warsaw Spirits Competition
