Tyrconnell 10 Year Port Cask Finish

Visual: It has a light amber or pale gold color in the glass. Swirling it leaves thin but persistent trails. Nose: Initially, it's quite potent, with a strong red apple aroma mixed with something like magic marker. After some time, the intensity and the marker scent decrease. The apple aroma remains, joined by crème brulee and fresh berries, though with less vanilla than typical crème brulee. A hint of fruity port wine essence also appears, which is understandable given the final aging. Interestingly, the ex-bourbon barrels don't contribute much beyond the subtle vanilla in the crème brulee. I suspect they are not first-fill ex-bourbon barrels. Palate: The first taste is sweet honey and hay, followed by a distinct malty graininess and strong cereal grain flavor in the middle. There's a noticeable warmth throughout the tasting, characteristic of the 46% ABV – it almost seems higher than 50%. Finish: The finish is quite long, with warmth that briefly intensifies then slowly fades. The grain and malt flavors continue, accompanied by the faintest hint of coffee and a nutty quality. The expert tasting notes mention an almond flavor in the finish. I would just describe the finish as nutty. Empty glass: A mix of nuts and brown sugar is present. So far, in my limited experience with Irish whiskeys (which is about to expand significantly with several samples I've obtained), I haven't been overly impressed. However, this one has captured my attention. It seems more distinctive than some I've tried – possibly due to being distilled twice rather than three times, and the port cask finish. I would rate this dram four stars if not for the warmth, which I found excessive for its alcohol content. Since there's no half-star option, I'm giving it three stars.

This is the second ten-year-old Tyrconnell I've really liked; it's quite enjoyable, but the finish doesn't quite match the nose and palate. The wood notes are present but lack the usual spice, and the aroma is remarkably unique with hazelnut, honey, and raspberry jam, plus a hint of flowers. It's complex until the lingering, hard-to-miss bitterness arrives on the finish. Still, a decent whiskey.

While I typically lean towards Pot Still spirits, I have to admit the Irish are capable of producing a respectable Scotch, which is surprising?!?! Despite that, it's a wonderful whiskey. We honored my late father with this very drink the day we said our goodbyes. The remaining ounces in the bottle are reserved for him, a tribute to his true gentlemanly nature. Rated 89/100. Cost $99.95 CAD.

A very light and subtle nose. However, the palate has big cherry and grape flavors, among others. The 46% ABV provides a good finish with woody spice and hazelnut notes. This Tyrconnell is very hard to find here, so I'm very happy to have one.

I suppose I've been accustomed to Green Spot, Yellow Spot, and Redbreast. I simply did not enjoy this. I took a few sips, and the bottle remains on my lower shelf.

Pleasant. Sweet. Enjoyable. Who doesn't appreciate a whiskey aged in port casks? The port casks soften the buttery richness of the single malt, leading to a relaxing conclusion best savored by the fireplace.