I’m more of a Scotch whisky drinker, but I’m also part Irish (Irish-Filipino to be exact), so in honor of St. Patrick’s Day, I rounded up three Irish whiskies that feature liquid matured in Sherry casks — my favorite finish for Scotch whiskies. Sláinte!
Bushmills Black Bush ($44.99 at Kdwine.com)
This 80% malt whiskey exhibits a dark color due to its maturation in Spanish Oloroso Sherry casks and sweet bourbon barrels for up to seven years. It’s got a slight spice on the nose, with Sherry on the palate and a lingering sweetness.
Redbreast 12-year-old ($67.95 at Sherry-lehmann.com)
Whisky Advocate’s 2011 “Irish Whiskey of the Year,” this single pot still whiskey has a fruity and spicy aroma, with notes of toasted wood and complex Christmas cake flavors.
Tyrconnell Sherry Cask Finish ($72.99 at Drinkupny.com)
Finished in used Sherry casks for six to eight months, this whiskey offers flavors of raisins and honey, complemented by notes of tobacco, oak and cinnamon and hints of butterscotch and nutty dough on the finish.
New York Drinkie 