English Whisky Co. 5 Year (That Boutique-y Whisky Co.)

This review pertains to the Irish Single Malt No. 1 Batch 2 - 13 Year Old, bottled at 48.4% ABV. I must admit, I was somewhat underwhelmed. The aroma is almost imperceptible; a faint trace of fresh vanilla, chamomile, and coconut oil (likely from American oak/ex-bourbon aging) can be detected, but only after careful inspection in the glass. The palate is more engaging, offering vanilla, peaches, and cinnamon – reminiscent of a peach cobbler with ice cream. The finish exhibits more spirit burn than anticipated for a 13-year-old whiskey at 48% ABV; it's not unbearable, but there's an unexpected sharpness. As this review is not for the officially listed bottling, an official rating is not being provided, but it earns a low 3 stars.

Let's move past the whisky snobbery. This serves as a timely reminder that 'new world' whisky (from England) can surpass mediocre offerings typically associated with Scotch, Kentucky, or Japanese origins. At our whisky club tasting, attended by many discerning palates, tasters rated its age and quality far higher than anticipated. It possesses a sooty peat and a complexity that defies its age and origin, demonstrating that skill and quality can overcome assumptions. Try it, and explore English whiskies from producers like St George, Lakes, and Cotswolds.

Aroma: Caramel, orange, berries, green herbs Flavor: Caramel, apple & pear, orchard fruit, bready. Tastes young and hot Finish: Barley & light smoke

This was dull and lacked zest. It was the fourth day of my December celebration. It wasn't awful, but it wasn't remarkable or delightful either. With so many superior beverages available, I wouldn't revisit this one.

The aroma has a pleasant sweet peat, which becomes more pronounced on the palate, offering a sweet and spicy character. The finish brings notes of orange and cinnamon.

This review is for the 13-year-old single malt Irish whiskey. It's awful. An excessive amount of alcohol burn.