Teeling Single Pot Still

N: Descriptions of grass and hay ring true. However, a sharp fruitiness lies beneath. It presents as a tart pineapple essence, not always agreeable but somewhat intriguing. Softer notes of pear and peach are also present, similarly tinged with tartness. P: Dominantly fruity, but it swiftly turns spicy. Think baked pear, a whisper of pie crust, followed by drizzled caramelized cinnamon. The cinnamon spice transforms into a cracked peppercorn heat and remains with each subsequent taste. A bitterness exists, seemingly disconnected from any specific flavor, and it intensifies over time. It feels inappropriate. The texture is substantial, somewhat slick, yet not sufficiently viscous to be described as coating. I appreciate the concept of acquiring Irish whiskey (particularly single pot still) from Dublin, steering clear of the established Irish whiskey oligopoly. Nevertheless, this offering falls short. The nose's tartness and the palate's bitterness both seem misplaced, detracting from the overall enjoyment instead of enhancing it. Ultimately, I'm uncertain if it's underdeveloped or over-processed, but in either scenario, it doesn't reach its potential. Despite this, it's thought-provoking and demonstrates potential. I will explore other Teeling releases, but I have no desire to revisit this particular one.

This spirit is far too immature to carry a price comparable to well-aged spirits like Redbreast 12, Green Spot, and Powers John's Lane. I conducted a side-by-side tasting with this, Redbreast 12, and Powers John's Lane. This offering was significantly inferior in quality to the other two, which are specified by age. The color is a pale straw yellow. The aroma is earthy, and it tasted more of grain and vanilla. Seriously, this reminded me of a tehona-style blanco tequila on the nose. I detect some lighter sweet notes, such as white grapes and vanilla, intermittently. The mouthfeel is thin, but there's a persistent spiciness. It's certainly one of the most earthy Irish spirits I've experienced, so I'll give it some credit for being distinctive. It's definitely unlike most Irish whiskeys, but the price point doesn't align with the quality. I'm unhappy that I spent $60 on this. If it were priced closer to $45, I might consider it, but I'd still prefer the $35 Teeling Small Batch over this. If you're contemplating purchasing this, invest a little more and opt for the Powers John's Lane or Redbreast 12 instead.

I visited the Teeling distillery last month and, after a self-guided tour, sampled and purchased this spirit. My overall impression is that this single pot still whiskey is not yet mature enough to be considered good. The nose seems quite immature, with grainy and chemical notes (perhaps from the feints?). Alongside notes of apples and strong adhesive, I detect a farmyard aroma, along with grass and hay, similar to what was noted previously. It hits the palate with heat and pepper, which isn't uncommon for pot still whiskey. However, beyond the intense heat of a young spirit, there's not much else; it could easily be mistaken for tequila. It lacks any refinement. Don't expect comparisons to John's Lane or Redbreast. It strongly resembles new make spirit, akin to poitín. Time will tell what this develops into, but for now, I find it merely average.

The aroma is less intricate, but the average ratings begin after that point for this spirit. The taste is reminiscent of a carriage ride through a hayfield with fresh oak barrels in the air. The raw, freshly cut essence of reality emanates from the glass. Do not mistake the oak for any hint of peat or smoke; this is distinctive and remarkable. If you appreciate the Teeling single malt, this is a comparable whiskey, possessing its own character and special qualities. The finish carries the sensation from the taste forward and lingers, aiding the palate in processing the experience. A superb dram for any evening of drinking.

Nose: mild sweetness, honey, vanilla, toasted grains, a whisper of fruit or sherry, spices, a faint grassy or straw-like aroma. Palate: echoes the nose, honey, vanilla, toasted grain, a hint of orange/lemon zest, more pronounced spicy, herbal, white pepper notes and oak on the finish. It's warm and smooth with a pleasant, lingering oily texture that carries through the sip. A solid example of an Irish whisky.

NOSE Sweet vanilla cake, botanicals, citrus zest, hints of fresh cut grass, a metallic tang, and faint candy. A pleasant, mellow, and light scent that feels vibrant and welcoming. PALATE Caramel, grain, botanicals, breakfast cereal, citrus zest, wood, trace amounts of chocolate, and copper. A warming, smooth, and unexpectedly woody experience with a subtle astringency appearing before the end. FINISH Moderate length, featuring notes of nectar, dehydrated fruit, copper, botanicals, and wood.