Connemara 12 Year Peated Single Malt Irish Whiskey

Connemara Single Malt Irish Whiskey Peated 12 Year is a unique expression in the Irish whiskey landscape, as it is one of the few widely available peated single malts from Ireland. Produced at the Cooley Distillery (now part of the Kilbeggan Distilling Company), it pays homage to the 18th-century tradition of drying malting barley over peat fires, a practice more commonly associated with Scotch whisky.

Key Features:

• Irish Origin: Produced at the Cooley Distillery in County Louth, Ireland.
• Single Malt: Made from 100% malted barley that has been dried over peat.
• Age Statement: Aged for a minimum of 12 years.
• Maturation: Primarily matured in ex-bourbon barrels.
• ABV: Typically bottled at 40% ABV (80 proof).
• Non-Chill Filtered: While some sources don’t explicitly state this for the 12-year-old, the brand often emphasizes natural presentation.

Tasting Notes (based on various sources):

• Nose: Offers a distinctive peaty aroma, often described as lighter and oilier than Islay Scotches, with hints of honey, heather, fresh lemon and orange zest, light apple and pear, and creamy malt. Some detect a touch of vanilla and subtle spice.
• Palate: Presents a balance of sweetness and smoke. Flavors of rustic, earthy peat are prominent, alongside notes of fruit (pear, apple, rhubarb), creamy vanilla, malty sweetness, and a touch of spicy oak. Some find a slightly fizzy or zesty character.
• Finish: Medium in length with a light and lingering finish. Notes of vanilla and tangy fruit fade with traces of oily smoke and spice.

Awards:

• Gold Medal: San Francisco World Spirits Competition (various years).
• Gold Medal: International Wine & Spirit Competition (various years, including “Best in Class”).
• Gold Medal: Irish Whiskey Awards – Best Irish Single Malt (12 Years & Younger) in 2018.
• A score of 94 points from the Beverage Testing Institute.

Overall Impression:

Connemara 12 Year Old Peated Single Malt is a well-regarded Irish whiskey that offers a gentler introduction to peat compared to many Scotch whiskies. It balances the smoky character with the underlying fruit and malt sweetness typical of Irish single malts. The additional years of aging contribute to a smoother and more integrated flavor profile with added spice and woody undertones.