HYDE No. 1 President's Cask 10 Year Sherry Cask Finish

Named after Ireland's first President, Douglas Hyde, this independent bottling from Cooley distillery would make him proud! Hibernia Distillers offers Hyde 10 as a distinctly Irish whiskey with an intense aroma of ripe peaches, smooth vanilla, and grassy/floral notes. The sherry finish adds chocolate and subtle spices. It starts fresh and full, developing fruity, honeyed, and bittersweet flavors before concluding with a well-balanced oak presence. What's lacking? A more accessible price and genuine character. RATING: 3.5/5.0 stars ≙ 84 pts → ABOVE AVERAGE

Notes of oak, with a bit more oak and hints of oak. This is incredibly one-dimensional. I will concede, however, that it's not actually unpleasant – I'm just not the kind of person who wants to pair his whisky with lumberyard materials. Regarding the sherry aspect, these were not first fill casks. It's impossible, given the lack of fruit on the palate. The bourbon, on the other hand, is quite apparent, with honey and vanilla present throughout. Not bad.

Reminds me of Redbreast because of the sherry finish. It's spicy, full, and fruity - you can almost see rich, ripe dark fruit, along with dried fruits and almond. The rich, coating mouthfeel contributes to a nice, long finish.

This is more expensive than it should be, but I've come to appreciate it over time. It's bright, fruity, with a little spice. The nose is a bit too aromatic for me, but the finish reveals some nice Sherry notes.

Vanilla and toasted cereal on the aroma. The mouthful is rather thin, but the palate is smooth and warm, with hints of orchard fruit and honey. The finish is fruity, oaky and relatively short. Not bad, but not great.

It's reasonably priced, balanced, and enjoyable, though in a way that appeals to everyone without having a distinct personality. A great introductory drink to prepare for more complex flavors later in the evening.