West Cork Sherry 12 Years Whiskey Review/Tasting
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: West Cork, Ireland.
- Type: Sherry Cask Finished Whiskey.
- Distillation & Maturation: Finished in PX (Pedro Ximénez) Sherry Casks, known for their very sweet sherry.
- Age Statement: 12 years.
- Alcohol by Volume: 43%.
- Chill Filtration: None.
- Coloring: No artificial coloring added.
- Color & Clarity: Not as dark as expected from a sherry or port wine finish.
- Bottle Design: Properly sealed for long-term storage, indicating a focus on preservation and quality.
Whisky Flavor Profile
- Balance of Flavors: A great balance between sweetness, sourness, fruitiness, and a slight bonfire note.
- Unique Characteristics: The whiskey showcases a mix of berries, vanilla, and a distinctive note of slightly off berries, adding complexity.
- Comparison: This whiskey stands out for its balance and variety of flavors, making it distinct from typical bourbon or sherry-finished whiskies.
Whisky Storytelling
- Distillery Background: The West Cork Distillery is known for its craftsmanship and attention to detail, as previously discussed in videos about their other products.
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- Irish Heritage: Being produced in West Cork, the whiskey carries the tradition and craftsmanship typical of Irish whiskey-making, with a unique twist by finishing in PX Sherry Casks.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- "It's a bit easier to, I wouldn't say digest, but to take it apart in your mouth and experience all the flavors because you have that sweetness that always says, oh, give me a bit more."
- "So far from these three, this one was the best because it has a great balance between sweetness, sourness, fruits, and a slight bonfire note."
Summary
- West Cork Sherry 12 Years is a sherry cask-finished Irish whiskey, not chill-filtered and without added coloring.
- It presents a complex flavor profile with a balance of sweetness, sourness, and fruitiness, highlighted by notes of berries, vanilla, and a unique slightly off berry taste.
- The whiskey is part of the West Cork Distillery's lineup, known for its craftsmanship and attention to detail.
- It is praised for its balance and variety of flavors, making it a standout choice among similar whiskies.
- Available in 35 countries, it offers good value for its quality.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- For the Whiskey Enthusiast: The complexity and balance of flavors make this a must-try, especially for those interested in exploring Irish whiskies with a unique finish.
- For the Casual Drinker: Its approachable sweetness and interesting flavor profile could appeal to those looking to expand their whiskey palate beyond the basics.
- For the Collector: The unique characteristics and the story of the West Cork Distillery add value to this whiskey as a collectible item.