Glendalough is a fascinating Irish distillery that offers a range of products developed with creativity and artistic abandon. Some are fantastic and some miss the mark, but we are always eager to see what they produce next. Today we are trying a new whiskey and gin from the distillery.

Glendalough Double Barrel Irish Whiskey – This single grain whiskey has an unusual mashbill that includes corn and malted barley. It was aged 3 years in ex-bourbon barrels followed by 6 months in ex-oloroso sherry barrels. The nose is surprisingly complex, offering vanilla followed by honey, fresh apple, grass, bubblegum, and mixed floral and grain notes. The palate follows suit with vanilla coming first, followed by much of the same as the nose — apples, honey, raisins, cinnamon, grass, and cereal. For a young whiskey, the flavors come together well in this light-bodied whiskey, and although the finish is a bit short, it’s pleasant all the same. I’d love to see what this would taste like with a bit more aging, but this is a surprisingly good whiskey as is — and a great value. 84 proof. B+ / $35

Glendalough Rose Gin – True to its name, this gin pours a lovely, light shade of pink. The color and character derive from the vapor distillation of garden roses as well as wild roses and plants from the mountains around the distillery. As well, after distillation, the gin is infused with additional roses. The nose immediately reveals the floral character, and although it is assertive, it is not overwhelming and blends nicely with juniper pine notes. On the palate, the floral notes are more dominant, but pine, pepper, and a bit of sweetness also come forward. I thought the gin did fine in a martini, but it really shines in a gin & tonic with the floral character checked by the slight bitterness of the tonic, resulting in a bright, balanced, summery cocktail that is refreshing and distinctive. Those who like floral gins and enjoy G&T will definitely want to seek this one out. 82 proof. B+ / $35

glendaloughdistillery.com

The post Review: Glendalough Double Barrel Irish Whiskey and Rose Gin appeared first on Drinkhacker: The Insider's Guide to Good Drinking.