Waterford Biodynamic Luna 1.1

As with each of the Waterford whiskies we’ve reviewed, there are similarities, but vast differences as well. In this new expression, there is a definite terroir and rustic edge that belies the sources of its grains and water. The malt is more chewy and has a darker character, with notes of bitter cocoa, burnt caramel and toasted brown bread. The overall effect is chewy with noticable body. The flavor is enhanced by the higher proof and holds up well under a splash of branchwater or a large single cube of ice. What is perhaps the most remarkable is the variety of casks used in the blend. These also bring out a lot in terms of personality. You can taste the tress, as it were. Very expressive and self assured. We applaud Waterford for exporing new territory with their whiskies, and look forward to more of their amazing portfolio.

Nose: There's a lot going on here. The distillery's own notes provide an extensive list and, for once, it's not an exaggeration. It's like eating a dark chocolate chip while sitting in a wildflower meadow between an hay field and a plum orchard. It's hard for my brain to track it all. Palate: What's interesting about the palate is that all the notes on the nose are there, but muted by a surprising ginger-cinnamon spiciness. It's very spicy, but not unpleasantly so. Finish: The palate fades pretty quickly, but repeated tastings bring out some barrel char. Summary: This is a young whiskey at three years, but it's possible that the youth lets all of the complexity shine through- and this is surprisingly one of the most complex whiskies I've had. I do wonder how this would develop with age, though, if I were to dock this whisky a star for youth, I'd have to give it right back for its unique character and the sustainable way it was produced. If you aren't deterred by the price tag, then I'd recommend searching this one out. It's worth supporting a distillery that's bringing something special to Irish whiskey.

Going through my sample basket ( actually more of a large tub than basket), I randomly picked out this one. So, this is the first biodynamic whiskey; in essence made using barley that has been sustainably harvested using biodynamic techniques. I’ve no clue what that is, and really care less. In the greater scheme of things, having one type of whiskey using a sustainable technique won’t make a dent in our climate change. But, sure as hell counts for publicity and “ I was here first “ bragging rights. But now to what really counts…how does this taste? The overall consensus reviews are middle of the road B / B- average. But personally, to me this borders more on B+. The nose isn’t much…light green apples and grape skins. But the taste comes alive with pineapples, lemon, and an almost tequila-esque agave flavor. Out of all the Waterfords I’ve tried to date, granted only 3 or 4 of their early releases, this is my favorite. There’s a certain clean , crisp element to it that makes it refreshing. I think this will be amazing with a few years on it. It’s not for all…that agave like crispness might not be everyone’s cup of tea. So, I’d recommend a sample first. My sample was only $6, so well worth the experiment.