Currach Atlantic Wakame Seaweed Single Malt
The Currach series from Origin Spirits are the first whiskeys to be finished in seaweed charred casks. After the success of its initial Atlantic Kombu release, this release follows the same process but uses Atlantic Wakame seaweed harvested off the coast of Co. Clare. This Founders Edition is bottled at cask strength of 58.4% ABV. Retailing at €110, if you can find it.
Omar Fitzell Notes
Slightly spirity start. Sandalwood shavings, caramel and chocolate make an interesting combination.
Palate
A great high ABV spice makes up for a light mouth feel. Chocolate covered pineapple pieces and caramel to the fore. Maybe it’s the concept playing suggestive tricks, but there is definitely a briny seaside note there.
Finish
Long finish that lingers with some orchard fruits. Spicy and salty to the end.
Overall
A massive step up from the last Currach release. Really well suited to higher ABV, there is a distinct sea note throughout this whiskey.
Al Higgins notes
Nose
Sea spray, lime juice, prickly pears, white chocolate, green herbs, summer hedgerows and angelica root.
Palate
More of those summer herbs with flavours of nettles, mint and parsley. Citrus fruits follow with lime, lemon and grapefruit zest leading to peppery spice and vanilla.
Finish
Crisp and zesty with some gentle spice and dusty oak.
Overall
Worth trying especially if you are bored with more traditional whiskey flavour profiles. This is an oddball but a good one.
Omar Fitzell
Omar has been lurking in the background of the Irish Whiskey Industry since 2010 when he started his journey through tasting, enjoying and collecting whiskey. In January 2018 he launched the online blog “That’s Dram Good” which, in those few short months, has become one of the most popular whiskey blogs in Ireland.
You can find him on:
• Twitter – @thatsdramgood
• Facebook – ThatsDramGood
Al Higgins
Over 20 years of experience in drinks retail and a member of the team at the Celtic Whiskey Shop since 2003. Alastair is chief tester and taster at the shop and is also coordinator for the Irish Whiskey Awards. When he is not working he is either training for ultra-marathons, parenting or drumming with his band Le Galaxie.
You can find him on:
• Twitter – @mostlydrinking