There’s a misconception Irish Whiskey isn’t peaty.
It has been – for a long time.
Irish Distillers released a 45 Year Old Peated Malt from the Old Midleton Distillery a while ago.
The whiskey for this tasting however came from Cooley – who have done a lot to revive the peaty category in Irish Whiskey.
Trying out a pair of 8 Year Old Peated Single Malts from the same source appealed to me – so let’s dive in!
Magilligan Single Malt, 40%
An Irish brand dating from the 1990’s using Cooley malt bottled for Ian Macleod Distillers.
Golden brown colour with decent legs. Fusty leathery nose with a sweet fruitiness & wholesome palate. An appreciative bite on the finish.
Quite a belter!
Magilligan 8 Year Old Peated Single Malt, 40%
Pale straw with decent legs. Gorgeous coastal iodine like smoke. An almost oily mouthfeel. The fabulous peat stacks up like a cosy warming fire on the finish.
Love this one!
Clonmel 8 Year Old Peated Single Malt, 40%
Bottled for the Celtic Whiskey Compagnie in France.
Pale straw, decent legs. Soft gentle kiss of turf. Light palate yet smoke comes through. A more balanced well stacked glowing fire gradually fades away.
Nice
Thoughts
A tough choice!
2 gorgeous peaters – the full on Mulligan or gently cultured Clonmel?
Can depend on the mood at the time – but I’m giving it to the fabulous peaty exuberance of Mulligan 8yo.
Sláinte
WestmeathWhiskeyWorld 