6 lesser-known Irish whiskeys to sip and enjoy this St. Patrick’s Day

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It’s the time of year when we’re all feeling at least a little green – not with envy, but with Irish happiness. Whilst we firmly believe there is never a bad time for a whiskey of any ethnicity, as you might expect, the week of St Patrick’s Day is bringing bottles off the back bar shelves with a little more regular regularity.

You may think you know a lot about Irish Whiskey, and maybe you do. But if your experience of Ireland’s proud spirit has been limited to the likes of Jameson, Bushmills or Tullamore DEW, we’re here to tell you that a much bigger and broader world of great Irish whiskey awaits. We are also here to introduce you to some expressions worthy of your time.

So, as the Irish say, “May the road rise to meet you.” And should you find yourself en route to a destination where a sip of Irish whiskey awaits, consider one of the following single malts in To consider.

Slainte!

Limavady Single Cask (46% ABV)

Distilled from Irish barley and matured in ex-bourbon casks with a finish in Pedro Ximénez (PX) sherry casks, this non-age statement single malt whiskey captivates from the first breath with a rich and complex aroma, that of brown sugar and a hint of cinnamon determined , juicy stone fruit and McIntosh apples. On the palate, baking spices and ripe fruit mingle like a spiced apple pie, with hints of grain settling mid-sip and peppery notes lingering on the finish.

Writers’ Tears Red Head (46% ABV)

By its name alone, this single malt sets you up for what to expect, although the whiskey’s ruby ​​red hue doubles those expectations. With a sweet aroma that blends light brown sugar with caramel and hints of sun-dried tomatoes, this limited edition whiskey immediately showcases the Oloroso sherry casks that held the liquid throughout its maturation. This sherry influence is celebrated even more on the palate, where flavors of dates, raisins and figs take center stage, while light hints of spice dance in the background.

Dingle (46.3% ABV)

On the nose, this single malt whiskey delivers fruity and floral aromas typical of Irish whiskey, with hints of fresh cherries and some baking spice accents. On the palate, the whiskey is rich and balanced, offering a blend of sweet and savory flavors – a quality that reflects the recipe’s marriage of six and seven year old whiskeys aged in ex-bourbon and PX sherry casks. With its juxtaposition of malty character and notes of vanilla and caramel, this new release will appeal to single malt enthusiasts who typically find Irish expressions too sweet.

Waterford Heritage Hunter (45% ABV)

If ever there was a whiskey that celebrated the grain more than the cask, then this new release from Waterford Distillery – a terroir-focused whiskey producer – is without equal. On the nose, this spirit offers dry cereal aromas so prominent that it is impossible not to recognize the liquid as a single malt whiskey. That cereal character reappears on the palate, sharing some of the limelight with bubblegum-like flavors, although notes of orange cake, clove, and citrus oils are also evident, according to Waterford. Bright and vibrant, the whiskey delivers a subtle spiciness on the finish and will make you reconsider what you think of an Irish whiskey.

IrishAmerican 10 Years (40% vol.)

Crafted on the west coast of the Emerald Isle at Achill Island Distillery, Ireland’s only island distillery, this 10 year old single malt whiskey is matured exclusively in ex-bourbon casks. Described by its creator as a full-bodied whiskey “with a floral underbelly” and “a hint of cinnamon spiciness”, the spirit brings a slightly herbal note to the nose with hints of lemongrass; However, crisp, bright fruit notes dominate most of the aroma. On the palate, honey and light brown sugar mingle with hints of vanilla and cherry, resulting in a layered whiskey that is smooth and easy to drink.

The Irishman (40% ABV)

As with most Irish whiskies, The Irishman opens with fruity aromas, only these venture into candied apple territory with lighter notes of green apple, pear and banana emerging as you swirl the liquid in the glass. Take a sip, however, and those fruity notes give way to flavors of vanilla, light brown sugar, and even a hint of cardamom. Light-bodied and short on the finish, this whiskey is an easy, quick sip or, dare we say it, a celebratory shot should your St. Patrick’s Day celebrations plunge into unpredictable terrain.