Teeling 19 Year Old Single Cask

Hang on… no sherry, Pinot Noir, Marsala, Madeira, Shiraz or Stout cask? Nope, this is a good old fashioned bourbon cask that matured for at least 19 years. I confess, I think the number of bottles is surprisingly small: not even 200. Bottled at cask strength by The Nectar and the sample was again provided by my whiskey buddy Benny. I believe he has a standing order with Teeling.

Typically sweet nose with an extra twist of banana, followed by some berries, honey, plums and pineapple. Peach and orange join somewhat later, as does a bit of caramel. This is a very pleasant nose and surprisingly fruity for a bourbon cask.

The body is creamy, especially after chewing a bit. Now the berries arrived first, immediately followed by bright notes of citrus (lemon and oranges), followed by red berries and honeysweet strawberries. A tad spicy on white pepper and licorice with a pinch of cinnamon. Quinine becomes grand, giving it a bitter edge. Does turn wonderfully tropical. The balance is excellent as is the strength. We are sure this is a bourbon cask, right?

Wonderfully long finish with a warm spiciness. Blackberries drenched in caramel at the death.

Another top tram from Dublin. Thank you very much, Benny. Wonderful dram!