Whisky Review/Tasting: The Wild Geese Rare

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Ireland
Type: Blended Irish Whiskey
Distillation and Maturation Process: No specific details provided, but the whiskey is a blend of pure aged Irish whiskey. The casks used were active enough to impart spiciness but not overly fresh, indicating a lack of strong vanilla or caramel flavors from the wood.
Age Statement: No age statement, but implied to be at least three years and a day.
ABV: 43%, slightly above the minimum legal requirement.
Color and Clarity: Colored, chill-filtered.
Bottle Design: Described as heavy and haptic, suggesting a tactile and visually appealing design.

Nose: Light, floral, and fruity with hints of citrus and possibly unripe (green) gooseberry.
Palate: Oily and smooth texture, with grain covering the mouth followed by a breakthrough of sharpness and spiciness. Notes of citrus and potentially a hint of honey.
Finish: Fruity aftertaste, with a second nosing revealing a bit of vanilla.
Overall: The whiskey is characterized by its floral and fruity start, with a well-balanced tension throughout the tasting experience. The casks contribute spiciness without overwhelming freshness.

The Wild Geese Rare Irish Whiskey is steeped in history, drawing inspiration from the story of the Wild Geese, soldiers, and refugees who left Ireland in 1691 amid injustice and natural disaster. This narrative ties into themes of freedom and rebellion, specifically referencing the Jacobin rebellion and the battle of Aghrim.
The brand name and story are also linked to a 1978 Hollywood blockbuster featuring mercenaries in a rescue mission, further emphasizing themes of freedom and resistance.

The whiskey embodies significant Irish history and cultural heritage, particularly the struggles and resilience of the Irish people during periods of oppression and famine. The story of the Wild Geese is a testament to the pursuit of freedom and the diaspora's impact on the world.

Horst Luening, the mastertaster of Whisky.com, describes the whiskey as having a "wonderful craft and history," suggesting that it may appeal to those with Irish ancestry or an interest in Irish history.
The whiskey is considered well-done but on the expensive side for a blend, priced at around 40 euros.

The Wild Geese Rare is a blended Irish whiskey with a light, floral, and fruity profile, slightly above the minimum ABV, and presented in an appealing bottle.
Its flavor is characterized by an oily texture, spiciness, and a fruity finish, with a notable absence of strong vanilla or caramel notes.
The whiskey's branding and narrative are deeply rooted in Irish history, specifically the story of the Wild Geese, symbolizing freedom and resilience.
It is recommended for those with a connection to Ireland or an interest in its history, despite being considered somewhat expensive for a blend.

History Enthusiasts: Individuals fascinated by Irish history and the story of the Wild Geese will find this whiskey's backstory particularly engaging.
Irish Diaspora: Those with Irish ancestry may feel a personal connection to the themes of freedom and resilience represented by the whiskey.
Flavor Seekers: Whiskey lovers looking for a light, floral, and fruity profile with a smooth, oily texture and a hint of spiciness might enjoy The Wild Geese Rare.
Collectors: The appealing bottle design and the whiskey's cultural significance could make it a noteworthy addition to a collection, especially for collectors interested in Irish whiskeys.