Tastes

Remarkably fruity, almost apple-like flavor profile. The body is light, and the oak tannins only come into play about mid-way through the journey. We are reminded of an eau-de-vie. The familiar “burn” of an 80 proof spirit is softer and more reticent, which is not a bad thing. Indeed, this spirit is deisgned for enjoying small sips as is, as opposed to watering it down over ice. Unique, and a rare experience to be able to try a barrel proof spirit that is entirely appraochable without dilution. We applaud Cascade Moon for releasing what could have been seen as a generous loss to the angel’s share.

This is a delicious whiskey that not only excels in flavor, but in body and mouthfeel. The limestone water comes through loud and clear, adding a depth and roundness, while at the same time a touch of graininess that is quite appealing. The distillate itself is classic, with loads of warm, malt, baking spice, toffee, oak, praline and light pepper. The finish is lighty sweet, but has a tea-like tannic edge, leaving the palate dry and ready for another sip. If you can, grab a bottle of this exceptional release before its gone.

The nose presents caramel creme, nutmeg, clove, sugared pecans and cinnamon. There is also a hefty dose of oak cask to tie everything together. Upon tasting, more of those elements speak out, along with cocoa, roasted coffee bean, young leather and mild ginger. Again, the oak encircles the disparate elements and binds them together. The finish is long, with fading notes of caramel hard candies, chocolate covered cherries and a touch of black licorice. Overall, a very sweet, candy-like release, with plenty of traditional bourbon character to please virtually any fan of the craft.

Lightly sweet with malt and grape essence, this is nonetheless tempered by the oak cask which infuses the endeavor with a dry character. The nose is delicate and fruity, while the entry has a robust and punch-like flavor. We particularly enjoy the Shiraz patina as it has an old school approach and is less sweet than if they had used a sherry cask. The flavor stays agreeable throughout the entire journey, and everything leads to a soft fade after several minutes. Really a joy to experience!

A rich and malty entry that expresses sweetness and roundness on the palate. Warming, slightly spicy and exquisitely flavorful, this is an Irish whisky that captures a playful aspect of the emerald isle. Wood, grain, water and time all play a part in this expression. As the falvor journey goes forward, different notes come to light. A bit of baking spice, softly tannic oak, chewy barley, baked pear, apple tart, blackberry and even cream. This is a great spirit to pair with a rich dessert or a creamy forward cheese. We continue to be impressed with the Waterford releases. The capture the independent spirit of Ireland.

Upon our first sip, we immediately thought of cocoa and milk chocolate. This characteristic remains throughout the journey, while the malt itself acts as a canvas upon which the Mizunara paints a delicate and evocative picture. This is one of the most unique Irish whiskies we've ever enjoyed, and of the several Glendalough releases, our favorite. If you are able to find a few bottles, snap them up immediately. They may never come this way again.

As with each of the barrel proof releases, the variations are slight, but noticable. With this one there is a definite leaning toward maple syrup and nut breads. Of the two releases so far this year, we like this one best. It has a roundness, lovely body and a subtly rumbling heat that wakes up the tastebuds. Another excellent release fromt he folks at Larceny.