Kilbeggan Single Grain Tasting Notes

	Kilbeggan Single Grain
	Cooley Distillery
	Single Grain
	43%

 

Tasting note compiled by Mark McLaughlin (@mark_rye)

 

Introduction

What first appeared as Greenore 8 year old Single Grain, named after an are of the Cooley peninsula where the Cooley distillery’s maturation facilities are, has now transformed over the decades into the expression we are tasting today. Made from corn (maize) and column distilled, this was the first iteration of Single Grain whiskey ever introduced in Ireland.

The current iteration of Kilbeggan Single Grain is a non-age statement vatting of component whiskeys with a predominantly ex-bourbon matured backbone with a small addition of virgin American oak. There is rumoured to be older whiskeys 10-12 years old but without adding to speculation it certainly has amplified the flavour profile of the previous Kilbeggan Single Grain.

Color

Lemon yellow with a golden hue, appears vibrant in the glass.

 

Nose (Aromas)

Opens with vanilla and soft touches of spice, it has a lightness which is pleasing. Citrus notes pop to the fore followed by orchard fruits with distinct pear notes and a touch of toasted oak.

 

Palate & Finish 

Incredibly well balanced, vanilla, toffee, and honeycomb with pear drops. There are consistent hints of citrus and warming wood spices throughout without ever being aggressive. Warm and rounded, cinnamon spice with vanilla pod sweetness. It’s a fantastic well rounded whiskey, fantastic neat and clearly diverse enough for classic whiskey cocktails.

 

Verdict

Although on the lighter side of Irish Whiskey, as you’d expect given the nature of Single Grain whiskeys, this packs plenty of flavour. Some would say it’s a good cross over to Irish Whiskey for a bourbon drinker because of the corn influence and American oak dominance, I however think you don’t need such an excuse, it’s simply very drinkable.

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