Pogues (Pogs) is considered to be the most malt whiskey in Ireland. The blend consists of equal parts spirits from malted barley and grain, which gives it a mild taste with floral, chocolate and citrus undertones. The drink was developed at the Irish plant West Cork Distillers by order of the famous folk-punk band The Pogues, whose popularity peaked in the second half of the 80s. Experts praised the drink, which the musicians released under their famous motto: “Less mainstream, more underground!”.
Historical information
The idea to create their own alcohol came to the group in 2015. As partners, the musicians chose West Cork Distillers, known for its single malt whiskey with a long aging period. The distillers of the plant Barry Walsh and Frank McHardy worked on the recipe. The task was not easy – it was necessary to develop a whiskey with a “punk” character that everyone would like at the same time, since the brand was originally planned to be sold also abroad.
The masters worked for a long time on the blend, but in the end they managed to create a drink that began to be called the maltest Irish whiskey of all that are on the market. Both the musicians and the management of the plant were satisfied with the result. One of the founders of West Cork Distillers, John O’Connell, believes that the brand combines an independent spirit, an unorthodox approach and a commitment to quality. In turn, the musicians are very hopeful that the brand will stand the test of time.
Whiskey Pogues produces distillery, which is located in the southern part of Ireland, in Union Hall, County Cork. West Cork Distillers was founded in 2005 by three friends, Denis and Jerome McCarthy, together with John O’Connell, who previously worked in food and beverage market research.
The West Cork distillery is a unique enterprise. Most of the equipment is made by the company’s employees, and barley is malted directly at the distillery itself, which is a rarity. Grain for production is supplied by Irish farmers. During distillation, copper cubes are only half filled so that alcohol vapors are in maximum contact with copper. The climate of the southern part of the Atlantic archipelago is the best suited for aging Irish whiskey.
Awards:
- The Spirits Business 2017, London – gold medal;
- The Los Angeles International Spirits Competition 2019, Los Angeles – silver medal.
Interesting Facts
The Pogues label features the chorus of the song “Whiskey Streams”, written in memory of Irish playwright Brendan Behan, who died from alcohol at the age of 41.
Expert and author of the book American Whiskey, Bourbon & Rye Clay Reisen, evaluating Pogues whiskey, said: “It’s a little sweet and smoky, it’s clearly Irish, that is, soft and harmless, but with good character.”
Characteristics of whiskey Pogues, 40%
The warm color of the whiskey is reminiscent of roasted hazelnuts. The aroma is dominated by malt, which is highlighted by walnuts, almonds and fresh pastries. The taste is soft, white flowers, vanilla, wood, dark chocolate and dried fruits are felt. The finish is long and sweet, with caramel, black pepper and ginger.
