I used to be an Irish guy when I first started with whiskey. Easy and smooth was the deal. I have since progressed to high proof bourbons, heavily peated scotch and robust rye. Irish has gone from # 1 to 4 in the whiskey canon( dont talk to me about Canadian its a distant #5) I have not ventured into the international pool(other than Bains corn)as of yet. My point is nowadays there really isnt much Irish Im interested in. I do like pot stilled such as the wonderful Redbreast(need to try Greenspot). The standard blends are fouled with grain alcohol content imo. There are a few decent ones but pretty lame overall. The sweet spot seems to be blends with a high pot still content. Writers Tears was excellent. Irishman Founders Reserve very good. All this lecturing leads me to Black Barrel. It has a high pot still content which washes away any grain drawback concerns. This is real solid Irish . Poured neat, nose is mild and gentle. Pastry dough, light toasted wood, hay bale, malt and that vanilla/spice custard note Jameson is known for. Grain alcohol is not interfering as in the standard release. Palate is creamy pot still texture with clarified butter, spiced vanilla pudding skins, whispy smoke and dash of wintergreen freshness. A hint of grain tries to sneak in but is held at bay. Its simple, sweet and enjoyable. The charred oak is lurking back there but not as prominent as advertised. Finishes clean with more vanilla and malt drying to barrel oak with mild char. The pot still elevates this blend and I even think the grain used is of a high quality. I waited a long time to try this as I felt Jameson was overrated and the regular blend just average at best. That was a mistake. This is rotation worthy imo and while not thought provoking its just damn good Irish. Call it comfort whiskey..........87/100.... very pleased especially at price paid of $31.99