Sips & Sites & Bites

Some of the most impressive whiskey in the world right now is coming out of Ireland. And the makers there have a keen eye on sustainability of the whiskey industry and a focus on the environment that surrounds making the liquid. 

A prime example of who’s doing it right is Waterford Distillery. And the whiskey maker’s latest innovation is their Heritage: Hunter, a limited-edition single malt whisky that revives Hunter barley, which was first introduced in 1959. 

The unique whiskey, which retails at $129.99 in select retail stores, brings a long-lost flavor back to the whisky world, and emphasizes Waterford’s commitment to terroir-driven craftsmanship. 

The Heritage: Hunter is part of an eight-year project by Waterford that showcases a dedication to environmental sustainability and flavor exploration. The barley itself is grown in rich, humus-dense soil, which contributes to a distinct taste profile and eco-friendly cultivation. 

In all, there are 10,000 bottles available globally, and only 1,000 bottles allocated to the U.S. Each bottle of Heritage: Hunter comes with a “TÉIREOIR code,” which offers complete transparency from barley to bottle. The whisky’s maturation comes from a blend of U.S. and French oak casks and that brings a complex palate, featuring notes from earthy and citrus tones to dry spices.

And speaking of the U.S. market, Waterford has introduced a new core range with three distinctive Cuvée Concepts in the states. Waterford officials note that these new releases mark an important evolution in Waterford Whisky’s mission to create some of the most profound and naturally flavorsome single malt whiskies. 

• The flagship, The Waterford Cuvée “Koff” offers a sensory journey with notes of white pepper, lemon zest, and a blend of spices, culminating in a long, dry finish of dried fruit and spices.
  
• The pioneering “Cuvée Gaia,” Waterford’s Organic Cuvée delivers a deep and complex organic whisky with heather honey, malted barley, and a fruity touch of blackberry compote, leaving a long-lasting finish of fruity sweetness and maltiness. 
  
• For peated whisky enthusiasts, “Cuvée Fumo” features a unique blend of Peated Single Farm Origins, featuring a fresh peaty aroma, full-bodied character, and a complex finish with cigar tobacco, green tea, and a hint of tar.
  

All three of these come bottled at 50% ABV. The Waterford Cuvée “Koffi” retails for $89.99, Organic Cuvée Gaia for $89.99 and the Peated Cuvée Fumo will be available for $99.99 per 750ml bottle. 

For more information about Waterford Whisky and upcoming releases, check out www./waterfordwhisky.com.