Hyde No. 4 Rum Cask Finished Irish Whiskey Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Ireland, specifically from the south.
Type: Single malt Irish whiskey.
Distillation & Maturation: Initially matured in bourbon casks, followed by a finish in dark Barbados rum casks.
Age Statement: 6 years old.
ABV: 46% (92 proof), non-chill filtered.
Color & Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the emphasis on non-chill filtration suggests a natural appearance.
Bottle Design: Features the year 1922, symbolizing Ireland's independence, along with the emblem of the Trinity College harp and the letters EIRE, representing Ireland. The bottle design incorporates elements of Irish history and heritage.

Nose: Fresh and delicate with notes of spring water, flowers (notably violets), a slight rum sweetness, sugary tones, and berries.
Palate: Fresh and flowery initially, with a subtle sweetness and a hint of rum. The taste evolves to reveal a spicy and woody character with notes of pepper and nutmeg.
Finish: Spicy with a woody bitterness, ending on a slightly sweet aftertone.
Balance: A well-balanced whisky with a fresh and delicate start, transitioning to a spicy and intense finish.

The Hyde No. 4 bottle design incorporates significant Irish historical elements, such as the Trinity College harp and the year 1922, marking Ireland's independence. The emblem and the letters EIRE on the bottle pay homage to Ireland's heritage and the establishment of the Republic of Ireland.

The Hyde No. 4 whiskey celebrates Irish independence and heritage through its bottle design and emblem. The use of dark Barbados rum casks for finishing adds a unique twist to the traditional Irish whiskey, blending Irish and Caribbean influences.

The reviewer appreciates the whiskey's fresh and delicate aroma, likening it to "smelling a very watered-down white wine" with added rum notes.
The transition from a fresh and flowery palate to a spicy and woody finish is highlighted as a notable characteristic.
The whiskey is described as having a "fresh start with a spicy finish," appealing to those who enjoy a complex flavor profile.

Hyde No. 4 is a single malt Irish whiskey, aged for 6 years and finished in dark Barbados rum casks.
It features a fresh and delicate aroma with floral and berry notes, evolving into a spicy and woody flavor profile.
The whiskey celebrates Irish heritage, incorporating historical elements into its bottle design.
It offers a unique blend of Irish and Caribbean influences, making it a distinctive choice for whiskey enthusiasts.

For Whiskey Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring Irish whiskeys with unique finishing processes will find Hyde No. 4 intriguing due to its rum cask finish.
For History and Culture Buffs: Individuals fascinated by Irish history and heritage may appreciate the storytelling and cultural significance embedded in the whiskey's presentation.
For New Whiskey Drinkers: The fresh and delicate start, followed by a complex finish, makes it a suitable choice for those new to whiskey, offering a gentle introduction with an engaging flavor evolution.