An expression of character from the Hinch Distillery, based in County Down, Hinch - 10 ans - Sherry Cask Finish - Whisky 43% is aimed at Irish whiskey enthusiasts seeking a silky texture, generous aromatics and a controlled wood signature. Designed for neat tasting, without artifices, it balances the bright freshness typical of Ireland with a savory depth brought by subtle maturation. Its originality lies in the marriage of a long period in first-fill bourbon casks and a final maturation in Oloroso sherry casks—two influences that converse here with restraint. The house pursues a precision-driven approach, favouring balance between grain and malt, clarity of fruit expression and a finish that stretches out with dignity. In a tulip glass the profile slowly unwinds, revealing a crescendo of time-polished aromas supported by a vanilla backbone and delicate warm spices. Presented in a gift box, this whisky stands as much as a companion to indulgent moments as it does a connoisseur's gift, promising a sensory interlude with the feel of a literary salon.

Blend and maturation

This Irish whiskey is a blend of two complementary expressions, conceived as a harmonic score. The backbone is made up of about 90% Single Grain aged 10 years, matured in first-fill bourbon casks to deliver a silky frame, soft vanilla and precise oak. Alongside, nearly 10% Single Malt, older and aged 15 years, brings complexity, ripe fruit depth and a pastry-like dimension. The whole then benefits from a 12-month finish in Oloroso sherry casks, signature of a sunnier register where dried fruit, nuts and a veil of spices nestle. This cross-maturation, between America and Andalusia, sculpts a broad palate that never tips into excess, preserving fruity drive and aromatic clarity. The distillery oversees the blend with watchmaker-like exactitude to guarantee, glass after glass, consistent coherence and impeccable structure at 43% ABV.

Tasting notes

• Appearance : Luminous gold with amber highlights, clear, showing slow legs that point to a generous texture.
• Nose : Floral and herbaceous opening, evoking freshly cut meadow, then yellow and red fruits, with a hint of candied citrus. With aeration appear hazelnut, soft vanilla, toffee, touches of dried fruit and a breath of gentle spices.
• Palate : A caressing attack, indulgent breadth on stewed fruit, roasted nut and vanilla, supported by a fine oak thread. Long, warming finish, notes of toasted nuts, bitter cocoa and a delicate spicy return.

Serving temperature and tips

Serve between 16 and 18°C in a tulip glass to concentrate the aromas and guide the build. A small dash of water can be added to soften the alcohol and reveal latent cereal and spice nuances. Prefer tasting without ice to preserve the fullness of the texture and the continuity of the bouquet. Store the bottle upright, away from light and temperature fluctuations. Sealed, this whisky retains its character for several years. Once opened, reseal carefully and enjoy within a reasonable timeframe to benefit from the initial aromatic brightness.

Food pairings

• Aperitifs : roasted almonds, characterful dry-cured ham thinly sliced, buttered croutons with smoked salt.
• Starters : pan-seared foie gras with dried fruit, warm game terrine, citrus-cured salmon (gravlax).
• Main courses : spiced duck breast, braised beef cheek, veal tagine with dried apricots.
• Cheeses : aged Comté, mature cheddar, a noble blue for a salty, creamy counterpoint.
• Desserts : dark chocolate entremets, walnut tart, orange chocolate sticks and hazelnut praline.

Tasting occasions

Hinch - 10 ans - Sherry Cask Finish - Whisky 43% gracefully accompanies moments of contemplation and quiet after-dinner conversation.

• To celebrate a milestone event with a generous aromatic signature.
• At the heart of a gourmet dinner when roundness and a persistent finish are sought.
• As a connoisseur's gift, presented in a box, to introduce or entice a curious aficionado.

Specifications

• Name : Hinch - 10 ans - Sherry Cask Finish - Whisky 43%
• Origin : Ireland, County Down
• Type : Irish Whiskey, grain and malt blend
• Vintage : Non-vintage
• Composition : 90% Single Grain aged 10 years, 10% Single Malt aged 15 years
• Alcohol by volume : 43%
• Aging : first-fill bourbon casks then 12-month finish in Oloroso sherry casks
• Volume : 70 cl
• Presentation : cardboard gift box
• Serving temperature : 16 to 18°C, preferably neat or with a dash of water