Sips & Sites & Bites

It’s nearly time to celebrate the rich heritage and traditions of Ireland. 

Several new and prominent Irish whiskeys have come to market recently, and what better time to introduce you to some. 

Distilled in Belfast, Ireland, McConnell’s Irish Whisky is one of the newest (and oldest) names in Irish whisky … J+J McConnell’s. 

Back after 90 years, this is truly a whiskey comeback.

McConnell’s 5 year old, which clocks in at 42% ABV, is a blend of malted barley and grain, put down in hand-picked bourbon barrels, which add a delicate and subtle sweetness with deep oak woodiness and light char to the finish. 

The whiskey maker noted that on the nose, there’s light citrus notes, peppered spice and vanilla undertones. On the palate are earthy fruits, butterscotch and vanilla sweetness from the bourbon casks, white pepper followed by an oak woodiness. It finishes sweet, with spice, oak, with lingering ripe fruits.

And kicking it up a notch, McConnell’s Sherry Cask Finish is aged five years in first-fill select bourbon barrels, then finished in Oloroso Sherry Casks.

Clocking in at 46% ABV, this whisky features notes of dried figs and currants along with Christmas spices such as nutmeg and cinnamon, dark chocolate, and a hint of fresh leather. 

For more information or to find a bottle, check out https://www.mcconnellsirishwhisky.com.