Connemara Original Peated Single Malt

Whisky Review: Connemara Original Peated Single Malt Overall Rating: 86/100 Connemara Original, an Irish single malt from the esteemed Cooley Distillery, is a rare gem in the Irish whisky landscape, offering a distinctive peated profile uncommon among its counterparts. With its delicate balance of smoke and sweetness, it presents a compelling choice for those exploring the intersection of Irish smoothness and the boldness of peat. Appearance In the glass, Connemara Original shines with a light golden hue, indicative of its youthful, non-age-statement character. The legs are thin but consistent, hinting at a lighter body. Nose The nose is a welcoming introduction to its peated essence. Soft, sweet aromas of honey and vanilla mingle with gentle waves of peat smoke. A touch of green apple and citrus zest adds a fresh, fruity brightness, while subtle undertones of toasted oak and heather bring complexity. Palate On the palate, Connemara continues its harmonious marriage of smoke and sweetness. The peat is present but not overpowering, offering a delicate ashy note rather than the maritime or medicinal characteristics found in some heavily peated whiskies. Honeyed malt and creamy vanilla dominate the mid-palate, accented by hints of orchard fruits and a faint nuttiness. However, the whisky's relatively low ABV of 40% leaves it feeling slightly restrained, with flavors lacking the depth and vibrancy they could achieve with a higher proof. Finish The finish is medium in length, with lingering peat smoke, soft spices, and a touch of dry oak. A faint herbal quality emerges, rounding out a satisfying but understated conclusion. Final Thoughts Connemara Original is an approachable and enjoyable peated whisky, perfect for those transitioning from traditional Irish styles to more robust, smoky profiles. Its gentle peat makes it versatile and accessible without compromising on character. However, the low 40% ABV slightly diminishes its potential. A bump to 46% ABV would likely enhance its flavor intensity, texture, and complexity, elevating it to a higher echelon. While Connemara Original performs admirably within its category, its full potential feels just out of reach. Nevertheless, it remains a unique and worthwhile addition to any whisky lover’s collection, especially for those who appreciate the charm of peat with an Irish twist.

Mai 2024 - Provence Robe dorée claire, quelques éclats abricots. Nez tourbé et fumé, je ne décèle pas d'arômes d'alcool, une nez assez léger. Première bouche claire et délicate, comme un nectar cristallin et pur. Une deuxième bouche tourbée avec finesse. Je ne sens pas de saveurs fruitées ni fumées. La troisième bouche dépose une fine pellicule légèrement pimentée sur la langue. Les goûts de ce whisky sont très épurés. Pas de fioritures mais de la finesse et de la délicatesse dans la fraîcheur qui initie la dégustation avant que la tourbe ne se révèle. Comme une belle femme qui s'offre à vous telle qu'elle est, en sortant d'une baignade nocturne, sans maquillage, sans artifices, avec sa fraîcheur nocturne et la chaleur de son corps. Peu de coffre. Un whisky pour femme élégante qui propose d'allier un goût tourbé précis avec une douceur rafraichissante. Dégusté au mas provençal familial, sur belle table ensoleillée, accompagné du chant des oiseaux, des éclats de rose et du soleil du sud. La dolce vita me happe et ce whisky ravi mes papilles.. la vie est belle.

A balanced, Irish Single Malt Whiskey by the Cooley Distillery in Dundalk. It is double-distilled in the Scottish style & then aged in Bourbon barrels. It has a rich birth with notes of peat, violet, hints of honey, hazelnut & oak; while a smooth life adds notes of honey, malt, fruits, vanilla oak & fresh peat; that leads to a long & elegant death with notes of honey, peat, hints of chocolate, vanilla & oak. March 2019 / October 2020 / September 2022

Beautiful nose of campfire smoke, leather, and tobacco aromas. Subtle salty and grassy notes as well. Coats the mouth and tongue like a thin syrup and lingers nicely. Caught flavors of smoke, spice, salty, nutty, honey, and a slight dried fruit like raisons or plums on the second approach. Add a few drops of water to open the nose to the more fruity and floral tones as it cuts through the smokiness but leaves a decent floral and fruity flavor.

Irlandés turbado. Color pálido. En nariz se siente la turba dando un aporte medicinal, frutal anaranjado, queso azul, gasificado. Floral en el fondo. En boca se siente como un Islay pero más frutal. Manzana roja. Final aduraznado sin perder el estilo turbado y a queso. Lindas notas pero se sienten con falta de congruencia, especialmente las notas a queso.

Vanilla and oak straight off the bat, with oak carrying through entirely. there is notes of licorice, earthy minerals, leather and dashes of brown sugar. the finish is peppery and peaty, with the finish being medium to long. Peat is medium strength and definitely noticable. Nice and rich peated irish.