Glendalough Calvados XO Single Cask

Nose: Faint apple, oaky simple syrup, a whisper of ethanol. Palate: Much sweeter than the nose suggested, like caramel apple candies, a sharp, almost Splenda-like sweetness, apple Jolly Ranchers, with a slight bitterness akin to apple seeds or stems. Finish: A light tingle, with a lingering sweetness similar to sugar-free apple candies and simple syrup. Score: 69/100 Final Thoughts: This had a quite uninteresting nose, not much aroma, just faint apple hints mixed with the typical scent I get from younger triple-distilled grain spirits (like basic Jameson). The palate was more flavorful with a nice creamy mouthfeel, but very sweet. Unfortunately, this sweetness tasted artificial, like a sugar substitute, with noticeable bitterness that was somewhat distracting. I think this would be better suited for cocktails, perhaps mixed with an apple brandy or other Calvados, as it's not great neat. Would I drink it if offered? - Yes Would I specifically order it? - No Would I buy a bottle? - No

I don't get how all of their special editions are so much worse than the standard stuff. Really watery start and the finish was just heat; if I must find something positive, there was a pleasant sweet flavor with the heat at the end.

Smooth, with a slight sweetness. A touch of vanilla from the bourbon barrels, along with some fruit and tannin from the oak.

Calvados is present and lingers in the finish. There's a bit of heat for a 42% ABV spirit.

Subtle character detected.