I couldn’t say goodbye to my latest selection of Irish Whiskey brands only available in America without a taste challenge.
Emptying what was left of the miniatures – and a pour from the 750 ml US size bottle – the first thing I noticed was the almost identical golden colour from all 3 whiskeys.
All 3 are NAS – non age statement – offerings at 40% ABV.
All 3 are sourced brands from unspecified Irish Distilleries and
All 3 taste remarkably different from each other.
I’ll kick off with Kilbrin.
This one immediately appealed to my palate. Fresh, lively & inviting. A gorgeous spicy kick towards the end endeared this blend to me.
Kavanagh was up next.
More malty – biscuity even. Hardly surprising as it’s a single malt. A smoother delivery – cultured perhaps – with a gentler spiciness adding some character.
Wolfhound rounded up the trio.
Compared to the others, I found the ‘roar’ of the hound a rather dull & muted affair. The honeyed sweetness just didn’t set my palate alight.
Without a doubt my clear winner – and rather surprisingly so – was Kilbrin Irish Whiskey.
It has character & attitude in abundance.
For me it captures the beauty of a good blend.
The balance of both malt & grain whiskeys compliment each other giving complexity to the palate.
Kudos to Kilbrin!
Sláinte
