Lambay Single Malt Finished in Cognac Casks

A little bitter and oaky, but otherwise ok. Has some nice vanilla, salty, and dried red grape notes. 2 oz sample from a buddy. Distiller Review No. 983

Sweet and round. No cognac but plenty of vanilla.

Smooooth

Nothing too crazy going on. Goes down easy.

My wife came across this and bought it because of the puffin on the label, which is as good a reason as any to try something new! I had never heard of this whiskey before, but am generally a fan of Irish whiskey, so why not! Nose Typical Irish fruitiness and malt is prominent to start, followed by the presence of the cognac influence adding a layer of complexity. Pear with a note of grassiness. Lastly a hint of vanilla and oak, but a minor player. Overall somewhat light on the nose, but bottled at 40% so not overly surprising. I am suspecting a gentle whiskey that will be an easy drinking companion. Palate Strong Irish malt flavors up front and much bolder with more body then the nose let on. The fruits evident on the nose are muted here, and the grainy bitterness that I enjoy in some of my favorite Irish whiskies (think redbreast 15 or 21) is spotlighted. I get a slight hint of the cognac barrels but again, it isn't overpowering like some wine barrel finishes. Following sips still ramp up to a surprising large flavour and more of the fruits come forward with a stronger vanilla presence. Finish Medium and lingering in my mid hard palate. It leaves a nice feel and a residual flavor that sticks around very pleasantly. I'm having trouble quantifying more flavours on the finish other than it is what I have come to expect with many Irish whiskies. In summary this is a nice find. Full flavored, but maybe lacks some complexity of some other similar priced Irish. Nonetheless, an interesting find and buy and one in happy to own, enjoy, and share!