Tyrconnell (whiskey)

Tyrconnell is a single malt Irish whiskey produced by the Cooley Distillery. The brand is named after a racehorse that won the National Produce Stakes in 1876. The horse, owned by the Watt family, was a long shot to win, but its victory inspired the family to name their whiskey after it.

History

The Watt Distillery, located in Derry, Northern Ireland, began producing Tyrconnell whiskey in the late 19th century. The distillery was one of the biggest in the world at the time, producing a wide range of whiskeys. Tyrconnell was their flagship brand, and it quickly gained popularity, especially in the United States.

However, the distillery was hit hard by the Irish War of Independence, the subsequent trade war with Britain, and the Prohibition in the United States. The Watt Distillery closed in 1925, and Tyrconnell whiskey was no longer produced.

In 1987, the brand was revived by the newly established Cooley Distillery. Cooley was founded by John Teeling, who purchased the old Locke's Distillery and converted it into a whiskey production facility. The distillery began producing Tyrconnell again, using the original recipe.

Production

Tyrconnell is a single malt whiskey, meaning it is made from 100% malted barley in a single distillery. The whiskey is double distilled in copper pot stills, a traditional method used in Irish whiskey production.

The whiskey is aged in American oak barrels, which gives it a distinctive flavor profile. The standard Tyrconnell whiskey is aged for 10 years, but there are also 15 and 16-year-old expressions available. In addition, the distillery produces limited edition versions of Tyrconnell that are finished in different types of casks, such as sherry, port, or madeira casks, to add unique flavors.

Tasting Notes

Tyrconnell has a smooth and light texture, with a slightly sweet taste. The whiskey has notes of vanilla and honey, with a hint of citrus and spice. The finish is long and warming, with a touch of oak.

See Also

• Irish Whiskey
• Cooley Distillery
• Single Malt Whiskey

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