Powers 12 Year Old John's Lane Irish Whiskey is a premium single pot still whiskey that pays homage to the original Powers distillery on John's Lane in Dublin. It represents a step up in richness and complexity from the popular Powers Gold Label.
Key Features:
- Irish Origin: Produced at the Midleton Distillery in County Cork, carrying on the Powers tradition.
- Single Pot Still: Made from a mash of malted and unmalted barley, triple-distilled in copper pot stills – a quintessential Irish style known for its full flavor and texture.
- Age Statement: Aged for a minimum of 12 years.
- Cask Maturation: Primarily matured in first-fill American bourbon casks, with a portion aged in Oloroso sherry casks. This combination imparts a complex array of flavors.
- ABV: Bottled at 46% ABV (92 proof).
- Non-Chill Filtered: Often presented without chill-filtration to retain its natural oils and flavors.
Tasting Notes (based on various sources):
- Nose: Offers an abundance of earthy aromas, including leather and tobacco, layered with notes of charred wood, dark chocolate, and treacle toffee. Some detect hints of honey, dried apricot, and even a touch of fruit.
- Palate: Full-bodied with a prominent spice front, followed by a creamy and rich texture. Flavors of vanilla, honey, and dried apricot are evident, often accompanied by notes of dark fruit, chocolate, and a subtle sweetness.
- Finish: Lingering and warming, with a honeyed sweetness that fades on toasted oak. Some describe it as having a spicy and slightly drying finish with hints of coffee and malted biscuits.
Overall Impression:
Powers 12 Year Old John's Lane is a robust and flavorful single pot still Irish whiskey that showcases the classic Powers style with added depth and complexity from its 12-year maturation and sherry cask influence. It's considered a well-balanced and satisfying dram, ideal for sipping neat or with a splash of water to unlock its full potential.
Awards:
- Irish Whiskey of the Year (2012): Jim Murray's Whisky Bible.
- Gold Medal: Irish Whiskey Awards (various years, including 2022).
- Master: Irish Whiskey Masters (2021).
- Silver: World Whiskies Awards (2023).
- Rated 94 points by Whisky Advocate.
These accolades highlight the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of Powers 12 Year Old John's Lane.
