Whisky: Glendalough Pot Still Irish Whiskey
Producer: Mark Anthony Brands International
Distillery: Glendalough Distillery
Region: Wicklow, Ireland
Whisky Type: Irish Pot Still
Age: NAS
ABV: 43%
Aged in Casks: ex-bourbon, virgin Irish oak
Price Range: $$
Glendalough is an Irish Distillery south of Dublin in the Wicklow mountains. Founded by Barry Gallagher and Brian Fagan in 2011, the distillery is known for innovative expressions aged in different casks. Its portfolio includes gins and several whiskies aged in Mizunara, porter, ex-bourbon, and ex-Oloroso sherry.
The Pot Still style requires the mash to have at least 30% unmalted barley, at least 30% malted barley, and up to 5% allowed for any other grain (malted or unmalted), such as corn, rye, etc. The style also requires distillation in traditional Pot Stills.
This Glendalough expression has a 2:1 ratio of malted to un-malted barley. It is triple-distilled and matured for three years in bourbon barrels and up to one year in virgin Irish oak.
Tasting Notes for Glendalough Pot Still
Nose: Lemon, honey, grassy, and oak aromas remind me of The Tyrconnell Single Malt Irish Whiskey. The aromas are subtle and inviting.
Palate: A citrus and sweet arrival that develops into a slight bitterness from the oak. The overall texture is soft and not as sweet as other Irish whiskies I have tasted. I like the balance between citrus and sweet and the transition to oak flavor.
Finish: Medium. A slight burn, bitterness, and ashy wood finish built from the mid-palate make a unique whiskey. These sensations make the overall profile of the whisky more interesting.
Conclusion: The Irish Whiskey category is highly underrated in the Southeast due to the popularity of bourbon. Those looking to explore other flavor profiles may find this whiskey interesting, but beware that it may not suit your palate.
The Glendalough Pot Still style is the 4th whiskey I have tasted from this distillery and one I recommend to those getting started in the Irish category for its uniqueness. I must admit that I have become a fan of the brand and plan to secure the Glendalough 13 Year Old (no longer available in the US) finished in Mizunara Oak on my next trip to Ireland.
Those who enjoy a more ashy finish could try the Glendalough 7 Year Old finished in Japanese (Mizunara) oak (check my review here), which adds an exciting dimension. Slainte!
Score: 4/5 ⭐
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Legend
$50 or less $
$51-$100 $$
$101-$150 $$$
$151 or more $$$$
