Connemara whiskey: history, overview of taste and types
Irish whiskey "Connemara" with an unusual smoky aroma for the "emerald" country is produced at a small distillery "Cooley Distillery".
The drink does not belong to the old samples of local products, as it was produced quite recently - in the 80s of the XX century. However, the unusual single malt whiskey has already won more than 2 dozen international awards and become a worthy competitor to Scottish island scotches.
History of Connemara whiskey
Cooley Distillery was founded by Irishman John Teeling on the peninsula of the same name in 1987 and became the first distillery to open in the country after a long period of stagnation. The new plant was built on the site of an old production facility that distilled potato alcohol. The place was not chosen by chance: the sparsely populated region of Connemara had a significant advantage in the form of the cleanest source of water originating on the highland slopes - the Slieve na gCloc river.
John has set himself the ambitious goal of reviving the oldest brands of Irish whiskey and restoring the local drink to its former glory. And he succeeded. First of all, the company's portfolio was replenished with undeservedly forgotten brands "Tyrconnell" and "Kilbeggan". New products were soon launched, including Connemara whiskey.
The basis for the creation of the original single malt was taken from the traditional Irish recipe and supplemented with the best Scottish technologies.
The high quality and excellent taste of the drink did not go unnoticed: it was awarded several gold medals at international competitions and the title "Worlds Best Irish Single Malt". "Cooley Distillery" has twice received the title of "Distillery of the Year", since 2012 the company is part of "Beam Suntory".
Specifics of production
The drink is produced by a method of double distillation, which is unusual for Ireland. The method of malt processing was also borrowed from the Scots: it is dried over burning peat. Bourbon barrels are used for aging the first-class malt. The drink is bottled in stylish green glass bottles and packaged in gift tubes with views of the Connemara region.
Types of Connemara whiskey
"Connemara" whiskey has a complex, smooth character, silky texture and a pronounced peat flavor. The aroma is powerful, but not harsh. The bouquet contains sweet notes of vanilla, honey, oak, malt, fruit, chocolate. Alcohol content: 40-60%.
Available in several versions:
ORIGINAL
It has a sweet barley and smoke aroma with hints of smoked fish and baked apples.
The taste is clean, slightly honeyed, with grassy, vanilla and spicy tones.
12 YEAR
The drink has a bright golden hue with the aroma of crème brulee, dried flowers, thick spices and herbal soap.
Taste: round, flexible, dry, with layers of praline, vanilla bean and exotic pepper. Aftertaste: long, honey and grassy.
CASK STRENGTH
Cask strength whiskey is a drink for true connoisseurs. Reflects the character of the harsh Irish region of Connemara, where it is produced.
The notes of peat and malt sound the brightest.
Drinking the "best Irish whiskey" is recommended in its pure form, without diluting with water and other drinks. Ice can be added if desired. The drink goes well with expensive cheeses and smoked salmon.
Update: 06.04.2019
Category: Whiskey and Bourbon