Woodman Wines & Spirits finds a few four-leafed clovers in the nick of time…
The spirit world continues to be an exciting place. Though whisk(e)y has always been an active category, the national spirit of Ireland has been one of the fastest growing segments. Irish Whiskey Global: Irish Whiskey International Trade Report 2021 states; “Irish whiskey was officially the fastest growing spirits category in the world over the past decade, with 140% growth in sales from 2010 to 2020.” So fast and significant has this growth been, that it is estimated by 2025, sales of Irish whiskey will have eclipsed those of Scotch.
This expansion has been spearheaded by a new breed of distillers who are passionate about returning the Spirit of Ireland to its past profile, which was assertive, rich, and complex – a style largely abandoned by the “big boys” in an attempt to compete with lighter, less distinctive blended scotches.
Over the past few decades, Irish whiskey has undergone a renaissance, with a large number of distilleries opening, and bold new expressions emerging.
Bernard Walsh, Managing Director of Walsh Whiskey, has played a leading role in the reemergence of the Irish whiskey category. His Writers’ Tears and The Irishman labels have gained global accolades and have been embraced by whiskey lovers here in Ontario.
Possibly the main thing to know about Writers’ Tears and The Irishman whiskies is that they are either single malt, single pot still, or a combination of both styles. Most whisk(e)y fans are likely aware of single malt whiskies. Single pot still whiskies, however, are unique to Ireland. The upshot are traditional Irish whiskies, with full flavour, bold character, and remarkable complexity.
If you’re ready to see what today’s Irish whiskey is all about, we invite you to try these:
Writers’ Tears Copper Pot Irish Whiskey
Was $55.10, now $50.10. Save $5.00 per bottle
LCBO #13057, 700ml, 40% ABV
The marriage of malt and pot still whiskies has been known to result in the creation of “The Champagne of Irish Whiskey.” Writer’s Tears Copper Pot is exactly that, a sophisticated and elegant blend of the two distinctive whiskey styles. Expect to find some forward, fruity nuances (apple and pear), combined with hints of vanilla pod and balking spice on the nose. On the palate, warm honey, vanilla, and ginger are interlaced with some malty undertones. Fruity/honey notes leave a lasting impression on the finish. Score – 93 (Jim Murray, Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible)
CLICK HERE TO FIND THIS WINE AT THE LCBO
Writers’ Tears Double Oak Irish Whiskey
$64.95, 700ml, 46% ABV
LCBO #13967
Another triple-distilled combination of single malt and single pot still whiskies, this whiskey undergoes a unique double aging regime. Both ex-bourbon barrels from Kentucky, and French Oak Cognac casks from the Allary Cooperage are employed in the maturation process, resulting in a very fragrant, mildly malty aroma, with suggestions of dark plum, poached pear, and cinnamon stick that lead to a smooth, full mouthfeel, with flavours redolent of sultana and lemon zest, toasted nuts, and mildly spicy cocoa lingering pleasantly behind.
CLICK HERE TO FIND THIS WINE AT THE LCBO
Writers’ Tears Red Head Irish Whiskey
$75.40, 700ml, 46% ABV
LCBO #494765
A non-chill filtered single malt Irish whiskey matured entirely in Oloroso sherry casks. The result is a powerful, complex dram that puts to rest any preconceptions that all Irish whiskies are “light” and “delicate.” The sherry influence is evident in the fragrant nose that leans towards sultana, candied orange peel, and dried apricot, enhanced by suggestions of mild smoke and cedar. In the mouth, nutty/sherried flavours come forward, backed by a touch of marmalade, and a dash of sweet raisin pie.
CLICK HERE TO FIND THIS WINE AT THE LCBO
Writers’ Tears Limited Edition Japanese Cask Finish Irish Whiskey
$139.55, 700ml, 55% ABV
LCBO #24092
Natural, non-chilled filtered and bottled at cask strength, this rare single cask showcases the stunning influence of Japanese Mizunara Oak from the foothills of Mount Fuji on triple distilled Irish Single Pot Still whiskey married with Irish Single Malt. This whiskey is a truly unique expression. Aromatically it shows exotic and intense notes of green apple and Asian pear, with suggestions of exotic spices, sandalwood and Japanese incense, along with some toasty, malted grain – a few drops of spring water help to unlock the full complexity of this spirit. Warm and viscous in the mouth, it offers a complex tapestry of crisp fruity notes, a gentle hint of smoked grain, and a remarkably long finish the ends with a peppery kick.
CLICK HERE TO FIND THIS WINE AT THE LCBO
The Irishman Founder’s Reserve Irish Whiskey
$54.95, 700ml, 40% ABV
LCBO #402552
A triple-distilled, premium combination of 70 per cent aged single malt and 30 per cent aged single pot still whiskies matured in ex-bourbon barrels, The Irishman Founder’s Reserve is a gold medal-winning, 100 per cent copper pot distillate that’s become a modern Irish whiskey classic. Zesty and peppery initial aromatics give way to orchard fruit, malt, and dark chocolate, all of which reappear in the mouth, along with additional suggestions of smoky oak, toffee, malt, and citrus that segue into a haunting finale of butterscotch and vanilla.
Score – 93.5 (Jim Murray, Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible)
CLICK HERE TO FIND THIS WINE AT THE LCBO
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