Today's Advent calendar treasure is Athru Knocknarea Single Malt Oloroso Finish from Lough Gill Distillery in Sligo. Nestled in the unique landscape of Co. Sligo in the west of Ireland, Lough Gill Distillery thrives in an area steeped in history, folklore, and mythology. Their sole dedication? Crafting Ireland's most exquisite single malt whiskey.

Experience it firsthand - a single malt aged in American oak barrels and expertly finished for three years in the finest Oloroso sherry barrels. Explore the essence of this exceptional whiskey and delve into the rich heritage of its origins. 🥃✨

Presenting my advent calendar find! This whiskey embodies a piece of history from The Pirate Queen and transports us to the era of Grace O'Malley with its captivating bottle design. Enter the world of Rum Cask Irish Whiskey - a truly exceptional blend finished exclusively in rum casks for six months, resulting in a distinct and immensely flavorful whiskey.

Master Blender Paul Caris hand-selected wet rum casks from Jamaica, infusing this blend with rich spiciness and delightful hints of rum and tropical fruits. The hand-tied, individually numbered leather label makes it an ideal gift choice.

 

Today's Advent calendar standout is the Black Cask Blend Whiskey from Beara Distillery in West Cork. This unique gem matures in handpicked casks at the Great Northern Distillery and receives an exceptional finishing touch in Beara. There, it's enriched with the pure spring waters sourced from the Caha Mountains, elegantly dividing Cork and Kerry before its meticulous bottling.

Nestled within the captivating Beara Peninsula along the Wild Atlantic Way, Beara Distillery, owned by John and Valerie Power, is a sanctuary for crafting small-batch spirits. It draws inspiration from the serene landscapes of the peninsula and its profound maritime heritage. 

 

Today's standout from my Advent calendar: The Spade & Bushel 12-Year-Old Double Barrel by Connacht Whiskey. This remarkable whiskey marks the second release in the limited-edition Spade & Bushel range by Connacht Whiskey Co. It's a true gem.

Aged in bourbon casks at their warehouse, a mere stone's throw from the Atlantic Ocean in Co. Mayo, this unique ageing process infuses delightful flavours of Granny Smith apples, pears, vanilla, and honey into the whiskey. Situated at the meeting point of the river Moy's pure, fresh water and the inflowing salty Atlantic Ocean, the whiskey's maturation undergoes fascinating shifts influenced by the ever-changing atmospheric pressure. 

 

Unveiling my advent calendar treasure from the stunning Wicklow region, nestled within the Powerscourt estate overlooking Sugarloaf Mountain. Introducing the Fercullen 14-year-old Single Malt, exclusively matured in ex-Bourbon barrels under the guidance of Master Distiller Noel Sweeney.

This exquisite whiskey boasts a tantalizing blend of almonds and plums and a delicate hint of cinnamon spice. Carefully sourced from rare aged Irish whiskey stocks, the Fercullen 14-Year Old Single Malt was meticulously distilled and left to mature in bourbon barrels.

Filtered in Cooley by the esteemed Master Distiller Noel Sweeney, who now spearheads the legacy at Powerscourt Distillery.

 

Advent calendar find alert! I just got my hands on the bourbon cask beauty from Dubliner Whiskey Distillery: The Dubliner Irish Whiskey—a delightful blend of single malt and grain whiskies aged in bourbon casks.

Prepare your palate for a journey! It starts with radiant beams of golden malt and vanilla, leading into a symphony of orchard fruits. Honey and caramel notes follow suit, with a hint of pepper adding that perfect balance—reminiscent of your first trip to the Irish capital.

This Dubliner Irish whiskey is a versatile gem, equally at home in a cocktail or enjoyed neat or on the rocks. Rested for three years in bourbon casks, it delivers a silky-smooth finish. Fresh apple notes intermingle with melted butter and a touch of toffee, creating a delightful drink—whether enjoyed neat, on ice or mixed in a tall glass with cloudy apple juice.

 

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