Review: Connacht Single Malt Irish Whiskey Batch 1
Review: Connacht Single Malt Irish Whiskey Batch 1
Connacht makes a range of Irish whiskeys, including Brothership and Ballyhoo, and even other spirits like gin and vodka. This however is the first time we’ve covered anything with the Connacht name on the front of the label.
This single malt was launched in 2021 as a 4 year old, double-distilled from 100% Irish malt barley and aged in both bourbon and oloroso sherry casks. Irish single malts can be impressive, and, while it’s youthful, Connacht Batch 1 cuts an impressive profile. The nose is moderately sweet and layered with notes of almonds, caramel, dairy cream, and shortbread — a big visit to the bakery, basically, with detours that touch on barrel char and flamed orange peel that at least nods at the sherry cask influence.
On the palate we find ourselves on a continuing trip to the Emerald Isle, the attack initially sharp with notes of citrus peel and some spice, then settling into a gentler groove that features baked apples, butterscotch, and vanilla, followed by more notes of roasted nuts, here showcasing more walnut than almond. Increasingly silky and creamy after the sharper elements wear off, the malt takes a late-game detour toward coconut cream, while giving some air time to the underlying cereal base. The finish is mostly built around vanilla and milk chocolate — more forceful than I expected — with touches of dry granary notes, slightly hay-like.
It’s altogether both quite a delight — and a surprise — that’s worth checking out even if you’re a casual Irish whiskey fan.
A 5 year old expression called Spirit of the Atlantic has since hit the market. We’ll report back if we get a sample.
94 proof.
A- / $60 (700ml) / connachtwhiskey.com
Connacht Single Malt Irish Whiskey Batch 1
$60
