Old Horseshoe Straight Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey, 70 Proof

Well here’s one that almost got away!

I’ve taken to hosting ‘Whiskey By The Water’ tasting evenings in one of my local bars.

The water being the Shannon & the bar Sean’s.

It’s a way of sharing my growing drinks cabinet that would be folly of me to consume on my own.

Old Horseshoe is an Aldi brand from an un-named source.

The 70 Proof is a throwback to the Sikes system of alcohol strength as used in the UK until the 1980’s – they might yet go back to it after leaving Europe.

Deep brown in colour with viscous legs.

I’m getting a classic high-rye bourbon style of nose from Old Horseshoe – very reminiscent of Four Roses.

Quite a dry mouthfeel.

The dry peppery nuttiness is long lasting.

A lovely drop.

Sláinte

Sean’s Bar website here.

Discover The Shannon website here.

Old Horseshoe Aldi website here.

Sikes proof system explanation here.

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Rúa American Single Malt, 46% & Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon, 45%

American Single Malt Whiskey is a growing category.

I thought a back to back with one of the new breed of American Distillery’s releases against a more established Bourbon producer was in order.

Image courtesy Celtic Whiskey Bar

Rúa American Single Malt, 46%

Distilled at the Great Wagon Road Distillery in North Carolina & claiming Irish heritage with the Rúa name is this non chill filtered , natural colour organic, non GMO barley offering.

A lovely richness to the nose. Mild & mellow on the palate. Slowly builds developing into a very attractive & enjoyable array of flavours which dance merrily away.

A very well presented single malt.

Image courtesy Celtic Whiskey Bar

Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon, 45%

Hailing from the long established & popular Four Roses Distillery in Kentucky is this Small Batch release. A blend of different bourbon mash-bills with varying degrees of rye content.

I immediately get a warm dry nose – indicative of the high rye content Four Roses is known for. A satisfying mouthfeel where the dry spiciness of the rye interplays with the smooth sweet corn influence. Leaves with that signature prickly spice.

Nice & easy.

Thoughts

I enjoyed both of these!

Trying to pick a winner is a bit tricky.

Do I go for the subtle yet engaging flavours of the newcomer single malt?

Or stick with the bolder rye spices of the established player?

Four Roses are relatively easy to encounter – but I do think Rúa is worth seeking out.

It’s constantly seeking new experiences that engage me on this spirit journey – so Rúa it is!

Sláinte