From the fine folks at Royal Oak Distillery in County Carlow—where the barley grows strong and the copper stills shine brighter than your uncle’s bald head—comes this triple-distilled stunner, made from 100% local malted barley.
First aged in ex-bourbon barrels, then finished in 300-liter Pedro Ximénez casks (because subtlety is for wine spritzers), this non-age statement release arrives non-chill filtered and bottled at a “brace yourself” 58.7% ABV. It’s like a warm hug… from a very enthusiastic rugby player.
Nose: Dark cocoa-dusted truffles, crème fraîche, and slivered almonds—basically dessert before dinner, no shame.
Palate: Pancakes drizzled with barrel-aged maple syrup, a pop of pink peppercorn—breakfast for rebels.
Finish: Tuiles cookies, a spoonful of pastry cream, and a citrusy kiss of kumquat to remind you it’s still classy.
A decadent, playful pour that might just convert your “I’m more of a Scotch person” friend. Drink it neat, slowly, and preferably near actual fire. Bonus points for a crackling log and a good story.