Whiskey Connemara: history, review 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, since it began to be produced quite recently – in the 80s of the XX century. Nevertheless, the unusual single malt whiskey has already managed to win more than 2 dozen international awards and become a worthy competitor to Scottish island scotch.

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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 equipped on the site of the old production, which was engaged in the distillation of potato alcohol. The place was not chosen by chance: the sparsely populated region of Connemara had a significant advantage in the form of the purest source of water, originating on the high mountain slopes – the Slieve na gCloc River.

John set himself the ambitious goal of resurrecting the oldest brands of Irish whiskey and returning local drinks to their former glory. And he succeeded. First of all, the company’s portfolio was replenished with the 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 of “Worlds Best Irish Single Malt”. “Cooley Distillery” twice received the title of “distillery of the year”, since 2012 the company is part of “Beam Suntory”.

Production specifics

The drink is produced by a double distillation method unusual for Ireland. The Scots also borrowed a method for processing malt: it is dried over burning peat. Bourbon barrels are used to age 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 whiskey Connemara

Whiskey “Connemara” has a complex, smooth character, silky texture and a pronounced peaty flavor. The scent is strong but not overbearing. The bouquet contains sweet notes of vanilla, honey, oak, malt, fruits, chocolate. Fortress: 40–60%.

Available in several versions:

  1. ORIGINAL

    It has a sweet barley-smoky aroma with hints of smoked fish and baked apples.

    The taste is clean, slightly honey, with grassy, ​​vanilla and spicy tones.

  2. 12 YEAR

    A drink of a bright golden hue with the aroma of creme brulee, dried flowers, thick spices and herbal soap.

    Taste: round, flexible, dryish, with layers of praline, vanilla beans and exotic peppers. Finish: long, honey-herbaceous.

  3. CASK STRENGTH

    Barrel-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 it with water and other drinks. Ice can be added if desired. The drink goes well with expensive cheeses and smoked salmon.

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Relevance: 06.04.2019

Tags: Whiskey and bourbon, Whiskey brands

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