One of the most alluring expressions of contemporary Ireland, the Whisky Glendalough Irish Single Grain Double Barrel 70cl displays luminous elegance, driven by the purity of the grain and the precision of a two-stage maturation. At 42% ABV, this characterful release targets enthusiasts seeking a clean, generous and balanced profile where sweetness never feels cloying. Its pale amber colour signals a clear aromatic register, while the silky texture, supported by well-sculpted oak, invites a tasting as contemplative as it is convivial. Distilled on a continuous column and chill-filtered for exemplary clarity, this single grain highlights the craft of marrying time, wood and raw material with subtlety and restraint to deliver a sensorial experience of rare accuracy.

Blending and vinification

This expression is based on a meticulous grain recipe, made from a mash of barley and locally sourced organic corn, fermented with a selected yeast and then distilled continuously using a two-pass process renowned for its finesse and consistency. The maturation unfolds in two complementary stages. The first takes place in ex-American oak bourbon barrels, which impart notes of vanilla, soft caramel and a discreet coconut, while contributing a silky oak framework. The second stage happens in Oloroso sherry casks, an Andalusian signature that enriches the aromatic palette with dried fruit, black cherry, walnut and gentle spices, delivering subtle, warming depth. This double maturation, patiently carried out over several years, achieves a balance where fruit freshness, grain sweetness and oak richness respond to each other without overshadowing. Chill-filtered to stabilise its clarity, the whisky retains its roundness and aromatic brilliance.

Tasting notes

• Appearance: Pale amber, clear, crossed with golden highlights. The brightness suggests a satiny texture, promising a silky grain perfectly tamed by cask time.
• Nose: Expressive and precise, it opens on fresh fruit and gentle spices, followed by touches of vanilla, blond caramel and delicate chocolate. With aeration, dried fruits emerge, a hint of black cherry, a note of walnut and a polished oak that never dominates.
• Palate: Smooth, enveloping attack where caramel and honey meet a discreet pepper. The structure gains complexity on dried fruit, roasted almond and a touch of cocoa. Long, comforting finish carried by almond, ginger and a finely integrated oak caress.

Serving temperature and tips

Serve this single grain in a tulip glass or tasting tumbler, allowing it to breathe a few moments to reveal its full complexity. It is best enjoyed neat to appreciate the precision of its texture, with a dash of water to unveil dried fruit and chocolate, or on the rocks to emphasise its freshness and vanilla sweetness. A large ice cube, less diluting, will preserve its aromatic thread. Take the time to gently swirl it in the glass; the carved oak and spices will reveal themselves gracefully.

Food pairings

• Aperitifs: smoked salmon, caramelised cashews, shavings of aged ham. The vanilla roundness responds to smoky and saline notes for a nuanced starter.
• Starters: poultry terrine with dried fruit, thin onion tart, cheese cromesquis. The Oloroso sherry fruit notes extend the indulgence.
• Main courses: spiced roast duck breast, glazed pork ribs, porcini risotto. The supple oak and soft spice create a warm pairing.
• Cheeses: aged Comté, mature cheddar, tomme with nutty notes. The almond and ginger finish balances the richness of the milk.
• Desserts: chocolate-hazelnut fondant, black cherry tart, dried fruit cake. Cocoa and sherry echoes converse with pâtisserie.

Tasting occasions

The Whisky Glendalough Irish Single Grain Double Barrel 70cl is the natural companion for chosen moments when you want to celebrate with restraint and elegance, prolong a conversation by the glow of a laid table, or give a thoughtful gift to a lover of fine spirits.

• For an after-dinner when you savour calm and aromatic depth.
• During a themed tasting focused on sherry cask finishes.
• As a refined gift for a palate curious about silky textures and delicate oak.

Specifications

• Name: Whisky Glendalough Irish Single Grain Double Barrel 70cl
• Origin: Ireland
• Type: Single Grain Whiskey
• Maturation: Double maturation, ex-American oak bourbon barrels then Oloroso sherry casks
• Alcohol by volume: 42%
• Distillation: Continuously distilled, two passes for a fine texture
• Filtration: Chill-filtered for controlled clarity
• Ingredients: Barley, locally sourced organic corn, water, yeast
• Colour: Pale amber with golden highlights
• Volume: 70 cl