Tyrconnell 15 Year Old Madeira Cask Finish

It’s still St. Patty’s day here in Ontario as I write this, and I decided to get to work on a couple of Irish whiskey samples that are long overdue in honour of the day, for those who celebrate it. It’s also Purim today, and the tradition is you’re supposed to get so sloshed that you can’t tell the difference between the good guys and the bad guys in the story. That won’t happen, but a few CCs of the spirit of life won’t hurt.

The bottle was opened by @OdysseusUnbound on Aug. 30, 2019, and the (very generous) sample poured the same day. I have tasted from this sample once before and (likely) gassed the sample bottle.

This expression is reviewed in my usual manner in a standard Glencairn, 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: 22/25

Sweet, fruity right off the bat. Red fruits I think like cherries and a little prune? Wine influence is prominent. Some baking spices. Very inviting. No change with water.

Taste: 21.5/25

Sweet, fruity and slightly spirity on the first sip. Slightly thin on the mouthfeel but full flavoured. I think I would guess 46% if I didn’t know. A little bitter in the development, slightly peppery. Water makes it more taste peppery and feel a little more thin. (20.5/25)

Finish: 21/25

Peppery, with a freshness on the exhale, medium length. No change with water.

Balance: 21.5/25

The nose and palate are aligned. Could be a little more complex. Slightly heavy in the wine finish. Water makes it a little unbalanced. (20/25)

Score: Neat - 86/100 With Water: 83.5/100

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I prefer this one neat. This is a very good whisky. I’m extremely grateful to @odysseusunbound for the opportunity to try this.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Find where to buy Tyrconnell whisky