Ireland ~ 46% ~ $155 ~
Glendalough is renown for their double-barrel approach to Irish whisky. That being said, Mizunara oak from the fabled snow-globe island of Hokkaido in northern Japan is not the easiest wood to harvest, process into barrels, or acquire. And even if you manage to procure some staves, the behaviour of the wood is legendarily fickle, imparting it’s flavour in unnerving staccato compared to other oaks. This expression is no exception so don’t be surprised if it doesn’t taste like any Irish, or Japanese, whisky you’ve ever had before.
Tasting Notes
By The Master of Malt
The Glendalough team went and finished some fabulous Irish single malt whiskey in casks made from Japanese Mizunara oak! This seven year old expression was first matured in American oak bourbon casks before being moved over to the Mizunara casks, which are rather rare indeed. It's a somewhat difficult wood to work with for coopers, but the result is a whiskey that offers up some glorious, fragrant, complex notes – well worth the effort, we'd say!
Nose
Sandalwood, orange zest, vanilla pod, and milk chocolate.
Palate
Chocolatey notes continue, with toasted cinnamon and five-spice, plus juicy apricot and nectarine.
Finish
Flaky pastry, brown sugar, lemon peel, anise.