A Four Country Blind Whiskey Tasting

4 Countries – 4 Whiskey.

No brands – no labels – no bias.

Stripped of back stories, tales of terroir, pricing or provenance – only my palate decides.

This is what I found.

Blackpitts c/oCelticWhiskeyShop

Teeling Blackpitts, Single Malt, 46%, Ireland

With only 1 sample exhibiting gorgeous peaty aromas there wasn’t much competition. Blackpitts was a clear winner bursting with fresh vitality & flavourful bouquets. Being Teeling’s own distillate just adds icing on the cake.

Toki c/oCelticWhiskeyShop

Suntory Toki, Blend, 43%, Japan

A fresh, clean engaging blend sporting lively grain elements with an enjoyable dry bite. A delightful offering.

Chivas c/oMasterOfMalt

Chivas Regal Extra, 13 Year Old, Blend, 40%, Scotland

A straightforward caramalised blend with a pleasing sherry finish. I find added caramel muddies the flavours & dulls them down a touch, loosing that fresh vitality along the way.

Dylan c/oPenderyn

Penderyn Icon Of Wales #3, Single Malt, 41%, Wales

Penderyn can be hit or miss with my palate. If it had been the fabulous peated Icon Of Wales #6, Royal Welsh – Blackpitts might have been under pressure! Dylan Thomas sadly just didn’t excite.

What would your palate have picked?

Sláinte