Lough Ree The Bridge Black Donkey No.1 6 Year Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey is a testament to the innovative spirit and dedication to quality at Lough Ree Distillery. This limited-edition single malt whiskey is crafted from the finest ingredients and aged to perfection. Distilled at the Great Northern Distillery, a name synonymous with excellence in Irish whiskey, this whiskey has undergone a unique maturation process that sets it apart.
The journey of this exceptional whiskey begins with a six-year maturation in a first-fill bourbon cask, imparting rich vanilla and caramel notes. Following this, it is finished in a Recioto del Valpolicella wine cask, sourced from the prestigious Pasqua Winery in Verona, Italy. This cask, known for its dark fruit flavours, was first used to mature Black Donkey Brewery’s Rua Ale, a limited-edition beer part of their Underworld series. The beer, aged with native Irish yeast from Oweynagat Cave, imparted its rich fruitiness to the cask, which was then transferred to Lanesborough and filled with this exceptional Irish whiskey.
Producer History
Lough Ree Distillery, founded by siblings Peter, Sheila, and Michael Clancy, is deeply rooted in the heritage of Lanesborough, Co. Roscommon. The distillery is renowned for its innovative approach, blending traditional methods with modern techniques. Since its establishment, Lough Ree has garnered acclaim for its commitment to quality and sustainability, sourcing local ingredients and employing eco-friendly practices. The distillery’s dedication to crafting unique and memorable Irish whiskeys has earned it a place among the top Irish whiskey brands.
Tasting Notes
- Appearance: A rich, golden amber, reflecting its bourbon and wine cask maturation.
- Aroma: Sweet maltiness with hints of chocolate, reminiscent of Ovaltine, followed by fruity aromas of figs, prunes, and sultanas.
- Flavour: Sweet and soft on the palate, with flavours of chocolate, figs, golden raisins, and melon, accompanied by warming spices such as cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
- Mouthfeel: Smooth and well-rounded with a long, spicy finish, featuring lingering notes of malt and golden raisins.
Food Pairings
This single malt whiskey pairs beautifully with rich, hearty dishes. Try it with slow-cooked beef stew or lamb shanks, where the warming spices and fruity notes complement the savoury flavours of the meat. For a lighter option, pair it with a cheese platter featuring aged cheddar, blue cheese, and dried fruits to enhance its complex profile.
Serving and Cocktail Suggestions
Enjoy this single malt whiskey neat or with a splash of water to fully appreciate its nuanced flavours. For a delightful cocktail, create an Old Fashioned with a twist: combine the whiskey with a touch of fig syrup, a dash of bitters, and garnish with a twist of orange peel. This cocktail highlights the whiskey's fruity and spicy notes, making it a perfect winter warmer.
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