Knappogue Castle 12 years

About the Knappogue Castle 12 years

Knappogue Castle 12 years is a single malt Irish whisky from Ireland, made by the Knappogue Castle brand. It belongs to the Cask Finish Series, a run of limited bottlings finished in fine wine casks. This expression is triple distilled and non-chill filtered. The spirit matures for at least twelve years in ex-bourbon barrels first. After that it moves into Marsala casks sourced from Marco De Bartoli, a celebrated winery in Sicily. That second cask gives the whisky its signature twist. The wine influence brings depth without burying the malt underneath. The single malt pours light and fruity, true to its Irish roots. Expect ripe banana, juicy peach and a touch of nectarine on the nose. Honey and vanilla follow, soft and rounded. Then cinnamon and black pepper add a gentle spice. There is a creamy malty body underneath, with a flicker of floral freshness. The finish stays fresh and dry, leaving caramel and warm pepper behind. Knappogue Castle has long been linked to single malt aged purely from malted barley. The brand built its name on clean, elegant Irish whisky rather than heavy smoke. This 12 year old shows that house style at its best. The Marsala finish simply adds another layer to enjoy. Best enjoyed neat in a glass, with a little time to open up. Knappogue Castle 12 years rewards slow sipping. A measure neat lets the orchard fruit and gentle spice show fully. It suits both newcomers and seasoned single malt drinkers. Few Irish whisky bottlings carry a wine finish this distinctive.