Silkie The Legendary Dark | Whiskey Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Ireland, specifically from the town of Donegal on the west coast.
Type: Irish blended whisky.
Distillation: A blend of double distilled and triple distilled Irish whiskeys mixed with grain whiskeys.
Maturation: Single malt whiskeys in the blend are matured in sherry casks.
Age Statement: Not specified, but the distillery has started production recently.
Color and Clarity: The specific color is not described, but there's an implication that the whisky has an appealing color, obscured somewhat by the label size.
Bottle Design: Tall, slim with a heavy bottom. The label features imagery related to Irish mythology, specifically a smoke turning into a mermaid.

Balance of Flavors: A balanced mix of smokiness with fruity flavors, transitioning to oaky aromas and ending with dark chocolate and tobacco notes.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky has a smoky blend made from peated single malts and soft grain whiskey, notable for its juicy sweetness, salty caramel, and a strong dark chocolate aftertaste.
Comparison: Not directly compared to other whiskies, but its unique blend of double and triple distilled whiskeys with a smoky character sets it apart.

Distillery: Produced by Sliabh Liag Distillers in Donegal, a new distillery with a name derived from the local peninsula.
Mythology: The name "Silkie" is inspired by Irish mythology, referring to mermaids that resemble seals, known for attracting people from the sea.

Geographical Origin: The whisky's identity is deeply tied to its origin in Donegal, Ireland, and its name and storytelling elements draw from local mythology and the Gaelic language.
Language: The pronunciation and spelling of the distillery's name highlight the differences between Irish Gaelic and Scottish Gaelic, emphasizing the cultural uniqueness of the whisky.

Horst Luening describes the whisky as having a "juicy sweet" flavor profile with "salty caramel" and a "hit of oakiness," transitioning to "dark chocolate and something fermented tobacco."
He appreciates the bottle design but suggests a smaller label could better showcase the whisky's color.
Luening notes the whisky's smokiness is balanced, estimating the peatiness at 10 to 15 ppm, and highlights its unchill-filtered nature and 46% ABV for a stronger taste.

Silkie The Legendary Dark is an Irish blended whisky with a unique mix of double and triple distilled whiskeys and grain whiskey, matured in sherry casks.
It features a balanced flavor profile with smokiness, fruity flavors, oaky aromas, and a strong dark chocolate aftertaste.
The whisky draws from Irish mythology for its name and storytelling, with a significant cultural and geographical connection to Donegal, Ireland.
Expert opinions appreciate the whisky's balanced smokiness, strong taste, and thoughtful bottle design.

For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring the nuances of Irish blended whiskies, especially ones with a unique maturation process and a blend of distillation methods.
For Mythology and Culture Buffs: Individuals fascinated by Irish mythology and cultural storytelling might find the backstory of Silkie particularly engaging.
For Fans of Smoky Whiskies: Whisky drinkers who enjoy a balanced smokiness without overwhelming peat might appreciate Silkie's subtle smoky profile combined with fruity and chocolate notes.