Why do I love Irish Whiskey? Because it's soaked in tradition and also it's evolving... very fast. A few years ago there were three distilleries and they were responsible for some of our most beloved whiskeys. Today? As far as I know there are 38 including loads of other brands and bonders. What will Irish Whiskey be like in 10 years? Different. We'll have to wait to see exactly what shape it takes but something that is pretty cool that we're starting to see more and more is: peated & smoked whiskey. "Irish Whiskey isn't peated" that's a fine thing to say if you don't make peated whiskey but at one point Irish Whiskey most definitely was peated. We fell out of love with peat for loads of different reasons. Peat was our main source of fuel for years and in some areas still is. Love it or hate it peat is here to stay on the Irish landscape and personally I couldn't be happier.
Which brings me nicely to todays spirit. Teeling Blackpitts.
Triple distilled single malt.
Subtle peat smoke.
2/3 Bourbon 1/3 Sauternes
No chill filtered and 46% ABV
Sounds good? It is. Salt, pineapple and barbecue on the nose. Is it peated wine???
Chocolate, smoke, pepper and caramel on the palate.
Mint, subtle smoke and pears on the finish.
I was sent a bottle from Teeling but I also bought a bottle... so you decide if advertising or not ;)