My first encounter with Blue Spot was after tasting the MVR 2020 & Knockrath Tree 7 offerings – the depth & complexity of which swamped any delights Blue Spot held.
Blue Spot c/othewhiskeynut
A chance sample allowed me to revisit this acclaimed single pot still.
Despite the high ABV – rich warming caramels greeted me on the nose.
The palate started off soft, mellow & mouthcoatimg – before the 58.7% strength kicked in with a powerful punch leaving me reeling with touches of spicy oak tannins.
To me it’s a whiskey way above my price range – I max out at €100 – which is usually rare, a collector’s item, limited edition, first release or a combination of all.
Many are never opened.
I grasp any opportunity to sample such whiskey – tastings, whiskey shows, launch parties – or in this instance – miniatures.
I approach them with the same level of respect as that of a €20 bottle from the local supermarket.
They are opened, poured into a Tuath Glass & enjoyed.
MVR 2020 c/othewhiskeynut
Midleton Very Rare 2020, Blend, 40%
The MVR series is highly collectable – especially this one – as it’s the last under Brian Nation’s tenure.
Quite a light nose, sweet grain with woody oak enticing me in. A lovely mouthfeel with those oaky tannins drying out towards the finish.
Very approachable, enjoyable & complex – yet lacks a certain oomph.
Knockrath Tree 7 c/othewhiskeynut
Midleton Dair Ghaelach, Knockrath Forest Tree 7, Single Pot Still, 56.6%
Straight into a deep, dank woody close!
The richness of this whiskey is a sheer delight to enjoy.
Gorgeous stuff!
Blue Spot c/othewhiskeynut
Blue Spot 7 Year Old, Single Pot Still, 58.7%
The much anticipated completion of the Spot series.
After the other 2 – this was a bit of a let down.
Light & spirity on the nose – lacking the depth & complexity of the MVR’s – what sherry influence appeared was quickly blown away by the high ABV.
Not for me – even if it’s the only one I could afford!
A satisfying tasting! c/othewhiskeynut
Thoughts
I don’t lust after these whiskeys – nor am I prepared the break the bank for them. They are simply expensive whiskeys appealing to a demographic beyond me,
But that Knockrath Tree 7 is a lovely tipple to lose yourself in!
WestmeathWhiskeyWorld 