Tyrconnell Sherry Cask 10 Year Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey (700ml)

Located on the Cooley Peninsula in County Louth, Cooley is Ireland's only independent Irish owned distillery. Converted in 1987 from an older potato alcohol plant by John Teeling and other investors, Cooley only distils their whiskey twice, not three times, as is the norm for many other Irish producers. They employ two copper pot stills with large necks, which according to the distillery, increases the time it takes for spirits to pass through. The result is a 'more refined and milder' whiskey.

The Cooley Company has won over 300 medals since opening. Other awards they have received include "European Distiller of the Year" in 2008 and 2009 and "Distillery of the Year" in 2008 from the International Wine and Spirit Competition, and "Distillery of the Year" in 2010 from Malt Advocate magazine.

Once owned by the Watts family, the historic Tyrconnell label (named after a successful racehorse) was originally a best selling brand in the United States before Prohibition. This limited edition 10 year old was finished for 2 years in sherry casks. At the World Whisky Awards 2012 it was awarded 'Best Irish Single Malt Sherry Finished'.

Tasting note: Bright gold with a pale straw hue. Immediately in the sherry mould yielding up pure and rich dried fruit notes accompanied by vanilla, bounty bar and hints of cinnamon. The palate offers more of the same with a medium dry flavour wave of vanilla, juicy dried fruits and a forgivable trace of sulphur. Turns to ginger biscuit and spice towards the finish which is vibrant and clean. A delightful sherry infusion that leaves the whisky shining through. 46% Alc./Vol.