Silkie Irish Whiskey

I previously reviewed the Bruichladdich Classic Laddie, noting that despite its label indicating it was unpeated, I perceived a subtle smokiness. It struck me as an ideal scotch for a summer day at the beach, though I haven't personally experienced this due to the town's dry status, and even if it weren't dry, beach drinking often feels like something best done discreetly, usually with canned beverages disguised as soda. The Laddie presented malty, citrusy notes, sea salt, and a hint of background peat. My review of Glenglassaugh's Sandend whisky, recognized by Whisky Advocate as a top pick for 2023, was rather unenthusiastic. As I mentioned then, its aroma and flavor profile are remarkably similar to The Classic Laddie, even sharing the same 100 proof. However, it costs $10-$20 more. I even confirmed this by tasting both side-by-side; while not precisely identical, they are so close that unless the Sandend has a specific nuance you prefer and the Laddie lacks, the extra expense isn't justified. The reason for this comparison is that Silkie Irish Whiskey, although Irish and 92 proof, bears a strong resemblance to both those Scotches, and at around $40, it's significantly cheaper. This similarity is quite surprising. I also tried the Dark Silkie, which is quite different from the standard Silkie. I enjoyed the Dark Silkie more due to its heavier peat, even though the peat had a somewhat rubbery quality, which might not appeal to everyone, even peat enthusiasts. The standard Silkie is described as lightly peated, which likely reminds me of the Laddie; there's a faint presence that those unaccustomed to peat might notice without being overwhelmed. Ultimately, I've become a fan and have changed my opinion. If I'm choosing an Irish whiskey, this will now be my preferred budget option, given its exceptional quality for the price. For future Bruichladdich purchases, I'm more inclined towards the Port Charlotte 10. As for Glenglassaugh, I must admit the Sandend didn't impress me enough to consider repurchasing. I've never encountered an Irish whiskey that so closely evoked a Scotch, making this a standout for that reason alone.

Irish Whiskey just hits differently for me. Perhaps it's always playing second fiddle to its Scottish neighbors, and I root for the underdog. Or maybe it's because every drop I've sampled, I've nearly adored (though I haven't tried Proper 12...). It's so wonderfully unpretentious and easy to drink. Now, I'll try a bottle of the "famous" Silkie, which I snagged for a steal before it was pulled from shelves here in Ontario. Nose: Grain malt, tart apple, juicy peach, and faint hints of smoke. It's pure and sharp, like a brisk autumn gust. Palate: Possibly the name is affecting me, but the texture is as smooth as silk (Silkie?). It begins with apple and orchard fruit, followed by a subtle kick of peat smoke. It's slightly fiery but not at all rough. Finish: The smoke remains, evolving into more of a tobacco character alongside apple peel and oak astringency. It hangs around a moment before drifting away. Yet another wonderful sip from Ireland. It delivers much more than expected, like a tipsy fairy. Palate:

Aroma: Sugary candy apple, root beer-like burdock, rocket candy sweetness, a touch of mocha, fresh damp oak, woody spice, hints of banana candy, soft leather, purple plums, pecans, dates, concentrated fig, a trace of lemon cream, roasted chestnut, chestnut wood campfire, a hint of nougat, marshmallow banana, eau de cologne floral notes, clove, spearmint, wintergreen, dill, a bit of grassy peat, a wisp of peat smoke, sweet peach, ample fresh caramel, fresh basil, honeydew, a touch of sweet sherry, raisins, tamarind, sweet pineapple notes. Flavor: Sweet burnt wood, raisins, spearmint with peat, clove, mace, treacle, sweet and spicy oak, spicy pear, sweet-spicy cinnamon, fudge. Finish: Ripe Bartlett pear, mild grassy peat smoke, a faint hint of nutmeg, some fairly fresh caramel, sweet and spicy oak, figs, dates, light honey, mocha.

No Age Statement. A blend bottled at 46% alcohol by volume, with no added coloring and not chill-filtered. The nose offers fresh-cut grass, green apples, a touch of citrus acidity, and salt. Wet grain is present. It's not harsh, with no ethanol burn. Complexity is low. Peat is barely detectable. It brings to mind JW Black. The palate clearly echoes Johnny Walker. Citrus zest is noticeable. It feels soft despite the 46% ABV. The peat is certainly present. The finish is medium, starting warm like butter cookies and ending pleasantly sweet, with some tannins. I truly appreciate the 46% ABV, natural coloring, and lack of chill filtration. It presents an interesting alternative for those weary of Speyside and Highland styles. I'm uncertain if I will buy it again, as there are simply too many other options to explore.

Silkie Irish Whiskey presents a delightful expression that starts with a gentle introduction of light, floral notes, creating an inviting aroma. The initial taste reveals a smooth and creamy texture, accompanied by subtle hints of vanilla and honey, offering a comforting sweetness. As the flavors develop, a hint of citrus emerges, brightening the palate with a refreshing twist. The whiskey's finish is characterized by a mild spiciness, contributing to a well-rounded and satisfying conclusion. Silkie Irish Whiskey embodies the charm of Irish spirits, providing a balanced and enjoyable drinking experience.

A whiskey from Donegal. After an unplanned distillery visit where purchasing bottles wasn't allowed, a helpful guide pointed out three places to buy their spirits. We took the opportunity to get the delicious gin, which is similar to St-Laurent; we brought a bottle back. We'll unfortunately drink the whiskey on the road before returning home. For a new distillery, their products show promise. It has that Irish smoothness, and we really like its spicy character.