Ironroot Icarus Corn Whiskey

Nose – Allowing this to sit for a considerable time revealed a strong vanilla presence. Following the sweetness, oak and funk emerged, reminiscent of a wooden cabinet. A nutty element, like deep, aged nuts, was also detected, alongside a hint of cherry, suggesting bourbon. Taste – Oaky and funky are definite characteristics. It's very high proof; an intense sweetness lasted for a moment before returning later, followed again by a blast of funky oak. It's difficult to discern much else due to the overwhelming intensity. Adding water revealed more fruity notes. A hint about a port finish was confirmed, and that was indeed detectable. Peat was not evident, unless the heavy oak and funk are perceived as such. The finish is similar to a spirit that was not well-liked, which is concerning. Further tasting confirmed a peat-like quality, similar to a new release that was disliked. Therefore, this is a definite pass. It's excessively sweet and peculiar, with both the sweetness and funk being overpowering. Rated 1.75 stars, but could honestly be rated up to 2.25 for its uniqueness. Thanks again for the samples; while unique, it's not truly enjoyable.

Ironroot Icarus 2019 edition 52.5% Nose: A sensory delight. Initial notes of sweet red fruit (raspberries) and sugar give way to classic bourbon characteristics of vanilla and brown sugar, with a faint hint of smoke and peat. The Ironroot corn mashbill eventually makes its presence known, revealing deep, rich red fruits and sweet corn, candied bacon, and Ceylon tea, before cycling back. Palate: Beautifully sweet, smooth, and wonderfully balanced. The port influence is upfront with raisins and mixed nuts, followed by the rich corn and oak. A very subtle undercurrent of smoke and a touch of brininess appear as it concludes. Finish: Tart fruit, drying leather, and sugary port sweetness with a sprinkle of salt. As it sits in the glass, more of the Islay character emerges but never dominates. It's exquisitely nuanced, providing a balance to the sweetness of the corn and port. This whiskey exemplifies integration and balance.

I spotted this at a local gastropub while celebrating my birthday. A wonderful companion purchased me a glass to mark the occasion. It's one of the more distinctive corn whiskeys I've encountered. Ironroot consistently experiments with their corn mashbills, producing some of the finest corn whiskeys in Texas. This particular one has a full body. It's sweet, oaky, and has a touch of peat to balance the flavors. I detect stone fruits and berries on both the nose and palate. The peat is present but integrated with a robust oak/tannic character that I appreciate. On the finish, I notice a corn dust note. Adding a few drops of water enhanced the sweetness of this dram. This is undoubtedly a unique Texas whiskey, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! I plan to visit the distillery soon to acquire a bottle.

This offers a superb combination of smoky, briny character with tawny port and corn whiskey. It's rich, deep, and complex. Tasting a sample directly from the barrel at the distillery was an incredible experience. I anticipate it will be reduced in proof when I purchase a bottle in May, but I'm eagerly awaiting it.

I appreciate how the peat is integrated into this spirit. It's perfectly balanced, noticeable but not overpowering. It lacks the unpleasant smoky notes that usually deter me from peat. Sweet port flavors provide a smooth finish. It's creamy, sweet, and has a savory smokiness.