West Cork Glengarriff Series Peat Charred Cask Single Malt Irish Whiskey is a standout offering from West Cork Distillers, a distillery renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation. Located in Skibbereen, County Cork, West Cork Distillers was founded in 2003 by childhood friends John O’Connell, Ger McCarthy, and Denis McCarthy. From their humble beginnings, they have grown into one of the top Irish whiskey brands, with their products recognised globally for excellence.
Product Details:
This Single Malt whiskey is crafted from 100% Irish malted barley and distilled using pure Mullaghmesha mountain water. The whiskey undergoes initial maturation in sherry casks, imparting rich dried fruit notes, before being finished in casks that have been charred using peat from the Glengarriff Forest. This process gives the whiskey its distinctive peaty character, which is relatively rare in Irish whiskeys. Bottled at 43% ABV, it is non-chill filtered and free from added colour, preserving its natural essence.
Producer History:
West Cork Distillers began in a small room at the back of Denis' house in Union Hall. Despite the economic challenges, their passion for crafting high-quality Irish whiskeys led them to success. In 2014, they moved to a new facility in Skibbereen, significantly expanding their operations. Today, the distillery operates on a 12.5-acre site on Marsh Road, with a distillation capacity of 4 million litres of pure alcohol. Their products are now sold in nearly 70 countries, showcasing their global reach and reputation for excellence.
Tasting Notes
- Appearance: Deep amber with a golden hue.
- Aroma: Slightly sweet with notes of dried fruit, complemented by a gentle smokiness.
- Flavour: The palate is well-balanced with initial sweetness followed by rich, smoky peat and hints of dried fruit.
- Mouthfeel: Smooth and full-bodied with a lingering warmth and subtle peat smoke.
Food Pairings
This unique peated whiskey pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods. The smoky notes complement grilled meats, particularly lamb or beef, enhancing the overall flavour. The slight sweetness and dried fruit characteristics make it a perfect match for rich, creamy cheeses like camembert or blue cheese. For dessert, try pairing it with dark chocolate or a spiced fruit cake to accentuate the whiskey's depth and complexity.
Serving and Cocktail Suggestions
The West Cork Glengarriff Series Peat Charred Cask Single Malt Irish Whiskey is best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to open up its complex flavours. It also makes an excellent base for robust whiskey cocktails. Try it in a Peat-Smoked Old Fashioned to highlight its smoky characteristics, or in a Penicillin cocktail where its peaty notes blend seamlessly with honey and ginger.
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