Method and Madness Rye and Malt
The first aged experimental distillate was created at the company’s innovation hub in Midleton, the Micro Distillery. Double distilled in 2015 from a mash of 60% rye and 40% malted barley, then matured in ex-bourbon American oak barrels. Bottled at 46% ABV. This limited-edition is available in Ireland, the UK, Dublin Airport and online at the RRP of €95.
Omar Fitzell Notes
A light, fresh, slightly citrus beginning that gives way to caramel, toffee and barley. Slightly “spirity”.
Palate
An immediate relaxed silky mouthfeel that quickly turns to a black pepper spice. Chocolate, toasted wood, orange peel and toffee all make an appearance mid palate.
Finish
Medium finish that has a slight grassy note. Surprisingly dry.
Overall
A soft yet playful whiskey. The nose and palate are mismatched in that I expected a far harsher palate than was delivered. I expected it to be very distillate forward and while that might actually be the case, the Rye and the Malt interact beautifully to produce a very enjoyable experience with an interesting clash of spice and sweetness.
Al Higgins notes
Nose
Fresh pastries, rye bread, yeast, marzipan, lemon cake, linoleum, cherry cake and vanilla.
Palate
More of those pastries, and they are freshly baked. Lots of lemon in various guises: zest, biscuits and cakes. A nice syrupy mouthfeel and some exotic fruits such as lychee, star fruit and ripe melon.
Finish
Brandy snaps, stem ginger, nutmeg and vanilla and more of those warm lemon flavoured baked goods.
Overall
Almost like tasting a whole new category of whiskey. Not your usual rye whiskey. There’s no big whack of mint and other herbs but this is a great voyage of discovery. The balance between the malt and rye is perfect. I think they’re on to something down there in Midleton.
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