Gelston's Pinot Noir | Whiskey Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Northern Ireland, specifically from Belfast.
Type: Single Pot Still Whiskey, indicating it is made in pot stills and can contain both malted and unmalted cereals, typically barley.
Distillation and Maturation: Triple distilled, a method famous in Ireland and the Scottish Lowlands. It is finished in Pinot Noir casks, which are wine casks intended to impart additional aromas to the whiskey.
Age Statement: None provided.
ABV: 40%.
Price: Roughly 30 euros.
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the use of Pinot Noir casks suggests potential for a unique coloration.
Bottle Design: Proprietary bottle with writings on it, indicating a connection to Samuel Galston and the current family name, Neil.

Balance of Flavors: Described as very gentle and well-balanced, with a light sweetness transitioning to a drier profile, followed by spices in the aftertaste.
Unique Characteristics: The finishing in Pinot Noir casks contributes to a flavor profile with notes of berries, tropical fruit, nutmeg, blackberries, and a sweet marshmallow presence. The whiskey is more aromatic in the nose than on the palate.
Comparison: Not directly compared to other whiskies, but the unique finishing process and the single pot still method set it apart.

Historical Background: The Galston family, starting with a man named Gelson in 1830, began their business in Belfast, Northern Ireland, focusing on bottling whiskies. The family now goes by the name Neil.
Production Anecdotes: The whiskey showcases a tight cork, indicating a slightly overpressure in the bottle, which is a unique mention in the tasting experience.

Northern Ireland's Distilling Heritage: Highlighted as a region with very few distillers and bottlers, making this whiskey a rare representation from Belfast. The triple distillation process connects it to traditional Irish and Scottish Lowland distilling practices.

"For the price, quite nice, yeah. Very gentle to the tongue." - Horst Luening, indicating the whiskey offers good value and a pleasant tasting experience.
"Definitely a lot of malt in it." - Despite the lack of a specific age statement or detailed composition, the malt character is strongly emphasized.

Originates from Belfast, Northern Ireland, with a unique finishing in Pinot Noir casks.
A single pot still whiskey, triple distilled, with no age statement, priced at roughly 30 euros.
Flavor profile includes berries, tropical fruit, nutmeg, and a gentle sweetness, balanced with a dry and spicy aftertaste.
Part of the Galston family heritage, with a story dating back to 1830.
Offers a good value and a gentle, well-balanced tasting experience.

For Whiskey Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring unique cask finishes and the subtleties of single pot still whiskies will find this offering intriguing.
For Casual Drinkers: Its gentle and balanced profile, coupled with an affordable price point, makes it accessible for casual drinkers looking to explore whiskey beyond the mainstream options.
For Collectors: The historical and geographical significance, along with the unique bottle design, may appeal to collectors interested in whiskies from lesser-known regions.