Teeling Brabazon Whisky Review/Tasting
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: The Teeling Distillery, located in the Liberties area of Dublin, Ireland.
- Type: Irish Whiskey.
- Distillation and Maturation Process: The whisky is a blend of exclusively sherry cask-matured spirits, including Sherry butts from 2005, 2007, and 2008, PX finished whiskey from 2002, Oloroso finished whiskey casks from 2002, and Sherry hogshead from 2001.
- Age Statement: The whiskies used range from 9 to 16 years old.
- Color and Bottle Design: The specific color of the whisky isn't mentioned, but the bottle design includes a pressed Teeling Whisky emblem into the glass, and it features a small cork stopper.
Whisky Flavor Profile
- Balance of Flavors: The whisky offers a balance of deep, soft sweetness with a fresh fruitiness, transitioning to a spicier and drier finish.
- Unique Characteristics: Notable for its sherry sweetness and fruitiness, with a hint of dampness reminiscent of a wine cellar. The flavor profile includes pears, apples, a little caramel, and a spiciness indicative of European oak casks.
- Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, its rich sherry influence and complex maturation process suggest it would appeal to fans of full-bodied, sherry-cask matured whiskies.
Whisky Storytelling
- Distillery History: The Teeling Distillery, established in 1782, was reopened by the Teeling family two years prior to the review. The distillery has a rich history tied to the Liberties area of Dublin.
- William Brabazon: The Brabazon bottling is named after an influential Irish Lord responsible for the industrial flourishing of the Liberties area in the 17th century, highlighting a deep connection between the whisky and Dublin's history.
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- Dublin's Liberties Area: The whisky is intimately connected to its geographical origin, celebrating the historical significance of the Liberties area and its impact on Dublin's development.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- "Wow, you have a deep with a deep soft soft sweetness but it's it also smells a little a little damp like a like a wine Sarah where you can smell the dampness and and the grapes."
- "It's a very round experience, it's very pleasant on your tongue."
- "It's all very mature, rough, soft, round, sweetness, fruitiness, well balanced whiskey then goes over to a bit more deeper stronger finish with a bit of a bit of a bitterness and spiciness from the cask."
Summary
- Teeling Brabazon is a limited edition Irish whiskey, matured exclusively in sherry casks.
- Named after William Brabazon, an influential lord in Dublin's history, the whisky celebrates the industrial flourishing of the Liberties area.
- The flavor profile is characterized by a balance of deep sweetness, fresh fruitiness, and a spicier, drier finish.
- The whisky is a blend of spirits aged between 9 and 16 years, offering a mature and well-rounded experience.
- The Teeling Distillery's rich history and connection to Dublin's Liberties area add a unique cultural and geographical significance to the whisky.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- Sherry Cask Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate the rich, fruity sweetness imparted by sherry cask maturation will find this whisky particularly enjoyable.
- History and Culture Buffs: Individuals interested in the historical and cultural significance of the whisky's origin will appreciate the backstory of the Liberties area and the Brabazon legacy.
- Experienced Whisky Drinkers: The complex flavor profile and higher ABV make this whisky more suited to those with a developed palate, though beginners might also enjoy it with a bit of water to soften the intensity.