Barr an Uisce Wicklow Rare

The aroma is surprisingly like plain cardboard. There's also something rather full and fruity in the nose, with an appropriate but subtle sweetness, along with some floral and vanilla notes. It's an intriguing aroma. The palate is very heavy on vanilla, almost to the point of being overpowering, or perhaps it is. There's a woody element that borders on harshness, reminiscent of Amontillado Sherry. It has a taste somewhat like formaldehyde or turpentine – and to be clear, I do not mean it has a lot of tannins (though it does have some). Still, it's a pleasant woody flavor. It seems like an acquired taste, and while it doesn't suggest great age, it does show skillful execution of an interesting concept. This is an unusual one, but it's quite decent. It's a bit thin, but still has a medium viscosity. The vanilla eventually fades slightly but remains very potent. The wood and bourbon barrel spice are definitely present. Somehow, the Oloroso barrels temper the bourbon barrels somewhat without making this overly fruity. Yes, it's a bit unconventional, but like Laphroaig 10, it ultimately comes together. The flavors have minor clashes, and they don't completely mask the youth, but there's definitely some age present and a fair amount of complexity with some interesting, often good, flavors. It's priced a bit high, but it's decent.

A well-made Irish Whiskey, it has a bit more spice due to aging in bourbon barrels. However, those same barrels add more depth to this offering. The sherry cask smooths out the sharp edges nicely, maintaining this as a very drinkable Irish whiskey with a light, smooth finish. Vanilla and honey are upfront, followed by mild spice with dark fruit in the middle, and a light caramel finish at the end.

Spicy sherry, vanilla, and honey on the nose; the palate mirrors the nose with a smooth, creamy texture, gentle spice emerges and leads to a spicy, medium finish. Adding a bit of water enhances the nose with a sandalwood scent while reducing the spice, and brings oak to the palate, making it smoother and creamier.

Appearance: straw/light gold Smell: spice and vanilla are most noticeable, with subtle honey and a hint of bandaid. Taste: honey, vanilla, spice, cinnamon, a mild nuttiness, and barley grass. The texture is a little light. Finish: very smooth and sweet, featuring honey and caramel with a touch of toffee.

Aroma - vanilla and a hint of sweet bread Body - perfectly acceptable, sweet with a little vanilla giving way to a hint of grass Finish - notes of grainy bread and a little mint Just average.

Incredibly smooth. Subdued in every aspect - and that's a positive quality. It's something any drinker can appreciate. Excellent on its own and subtle enough for any cocktail.