Dingle Celtic Series Grainstad an Gheimhridh Single Malt Irish Whiskey (700ml)

Matured in first-fill Bourbon casks followed by an extended finish in Tawny Port casks, this, the fifth release in the 'Celtic Wheel of the Year' series honours the ancient celebration of Grianstad an Gheimhridh, the winter solstice. Grianstad translates to ‘the stopping of the sun’ and the port finishing ties in with the label's theme, evoking the dark of night drawing in. Light, vaguely defined aromatics suggest dried grass, bread and faint beeswax, but compensate in a fuller, more oily and better defined mid palate presence; the creamy, biscuity malt fills out nicely, ending with hints of baked apple, cinnamon and white pepper. Appealing, even if complexity or persistence aren’t strong points. 50.5% Alc./Vol.

Notes from the producers... Nose: Ice cream soda, blackcurrant jelly, banana carmel, pomegranate, cinnamon toast and warm ginger. Taste: Red berry fruits, dark chocolate, warm cloves, creamy soft fudge. Finish: The spice mellow leaving a lingering sweetness on the tip of the tongue.