Muff Irish Whiskey is a blended Irish whiskey produced by The Muff Liquor Company, based in the village of Muff in County Donegal, Ireland. The company was founded by Laura Bonner in 2017, inspired by her grandfather, Philip McClenaghan, a potato farmer known for his innovative "Poitín" recipes. While they also produce gin and vodka from potatoes, their Irish whiskey is a distinct offering.
Key Features:
- Irish Origin: Produced and bottled in Ireland by The Muff Liquor Company in County Donegal.
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Blend: A five-part blend of Irish malt and grain whiskeys, each bringing a unique characteristic:
- Triple-distilled grain whiskey matured in virgin oak casks (for dark color and sweet vanilla notes).
- Triple-distilled grain whiskey matured in ex-American bourbon casks (for light and sweet notes).
- Sherry-matured triple-distilled malt whiskey (for body).
- Double-distilled malt whiskey (for fruity esters).
- Peated triple-distilled malt whiskey matured in ex-American bourbon casks (for a smoky flavor and long, rounded finish).
- No Age Statement (NAS): While the blend includes whiskeys of various ages, it does not carry a specific age statement, implying the focus is on achieving a particular flavor profile.
- Peated Element: A key characteristic is the inclusion of peated malt whiskey, which sets it apart from many standard Irish blends and provides a noticeable smoky influence.
- ABV: Typically bottled at 43% ABV.
- Female-Founded and Led: The Muff Liquor Company is a female-founded and led business.
Tasting Notes:
- Nose: Offers a vibrant mix of orange peel, cinder toffee, banana chips, and ripe nectarines, along with a noticeable peat smoke. Some also detect notes of smoked fish, burning oak chips, vanilla, and toasted coconut.
- Palate: Presents a warming blend of cinnamon, oak, caramelized nuts, and crisp green apples. The peat influence continues on the palate, often described as sweet and mild, with some whiskey and pepper spice.
- Finish: Rounding off the profile with smooth notes of vanilla pod and coconut ice, alongside a lingering peat smoke that is often described as long and pleasant. Some also find a late flash of pepper and creamy notes.
Overall Impression:
Muff Irish Whiskey is considered a unique and enjoyable peated Irish blend. It offers a good balance of sweet and fruity notes with a distinctive but not overpowering smokiness. It's often praised for its smoothness and complexity at its price point, making it a worthwhile option for those looking for an Irish whiskey with a touch of peat. The name "Muff" itself is derived from the village in Donegal and is intentionally playful, with the company embracing the humorous connotations. The brand aims to honor traditional Irish spirit-making while bringing a fresh and innovative approach.
