Midleton Yellow Spot 12 Year Old

I have limited experience with Irish whiskey. It’s probably because many commonly available expressions are bottled at 40% and I tend to reach for something with a higher ABV. Lately I’ve started to gain the ability to appreciate some lower proof whiskies, though this one is bottled at 46%.

This sample is courtesy @OdysseusUnbound, acquired in a recent sample swap. The bottle was opened on April 12, the same day this sample was poured. I don’t know much about Yellow Spot, other than it is a Pot Still whiskey, and appears to be the older / higher ABV sibling of Green Spot.

This expression is reviewed in a Tuath Irish Whiskey Glass in my usual manner, allowing it to settle after which I take my nosing and tasting notes, followed by the addition of a few drops of water, waiting, then nosing and tasting.

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Nose: 21.5/25

Rich, sweet, slightly spirity. Not dissimilar to Redbreast 12YO CS (from memory). Very syrupy. Something savoury. Some baking spices. Later some fruitiness emerges (after the first sip). I don’t find it all that complex, but the richness is pleasant and inviting. With water, a slight hint of pineapple, and (???) wet dog (I took my dog out after adding water).

Taste: 20.5/25

A bit hot and peppery on the first sip, with sweetness in the development. Rich mouthfeel. A hint of fruit (?Apple?). Again not too complex. With water, the fruit is more prominent, the spices come out, but it remains a little spirity. (21.5/25)

Finish: 20/25

Peppery and slightly astringent, with a sourness in the background. Water sweetens the finish and tones down the pepper, and a the exit there is a hint of red wine. (21/25)

Balance: 21/25

The nose is rich but the palate does not have much depth or breadth. Water improves the experience. (21.5/25)

Score: Neat - 82.5/100 With Water: 85.5/100

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Hummingbird single origin trinitario 70% dark chocolate compliments this very nicely. Popcorn with cheese flavour not so much.

This continues to open with time and is not at its best until well over 1/2 an hour after pouring and adding water.

I’m very happy to have tried this expression. I’ve tossed around the idea of buying a bottle of this for a while, but I don’t think it brings anything new to the table that I can’t get from something I already have in my cabinet. If offered at a party it would definitely be accepted.

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For your reference, I attach a link to @odysseusUnbound’s review, which came from the same bottle:

connosr.com/yellow-spot-12-year-old-whisky…

While he was able to taste and smell more than I was, I do see some common themes.

Thanks again @odysseusUnbound for letting me try this!

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