The Celt Irish Whiskey An Chéad Bhlás

This whiskey is independently bottled by the Celtic Whiskey Shop. “An Chéad Bhlás” translates to “First Taste,” signifying the initial small batch of The Celt, a no-age statement single malt from an unknown Irish distiller, finished in sherry casks. The aroma is an unusual but unpleasant mix of dried fruit and burning. I detect raisins, prune juice, maple syrup, scorched leather, wood, and rubber. Figs, sourdough, grape skin, and pepper are noticeable on the palate, but they are overwhelmed by an off-putting tannic saltiness. The finish remains tannic but deteriorates further with the unwelcome addition of slightly sour milk and a metallic sharpness. To be fair, it does present some flavor notes I've rarely encountered in a whiskey, but heavens, no!

Very peaty and smoky, it resembles a scotch more than an Irish whiskey. Nevertheless, if you appreciate scotch flavors, this is a worthwhile whiskey to explore (though likely not worth the cost).