The Irishman 12 yo
43% ABV
Launched 2012; 12yo in Oak Bourbon & Oloroso casks – only 6,000 bottles produced pa
Up to 2016, Walsh carefully selected specific aged casks in these woods from IDL casks and blended them for bottling.
2016 – new Walsh Distillery opened – Royal Oak, County Carlow ‘Barley Basket’ of Ireland – On 100th anniversary of 1916 Easter Rising - watch this space for future self-distilled editions!
Nose:
From the exquisite aroma there is no mistaking the influence of the ex-Bourbon casks with the light sweet spicy notes of Vanilla, Cinnamon and even a tincture of Clove. All balanced with Apples and Pears, some charred wood and freshly cut hay.
Other notes - Ripe and fruity with luscious peach, dried apricot, and tropical fruits. Hints of orange blossom and vanilla fudge.
Taste:
The initial sip is a burst of rich flavours, sweet with Vanilla delicately bolstered by Black Peppercorns, reluctantly giving way to a succulent fruity mid-section before slowly fading to leave a very satisfying grassy cereal conclusion.
Other notes - Vanilla sweetness, granola, toasted almonds and honey, a little oak, digestive biscuits, apricots, and a hint of coca. + musky / dusty.
Finish:
The fullness of the body fades quite quickly but leaves behind a lingering succulent flavour of Barley and Oak. A touch of creamy dairy fudge and Dark Chocolate adds to the complexity.
With water:
Creamy with citrus on edge of tongue