Latest news with #JMicallef
Forbes
4 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
Indri: India's Bold New Voice In Premium Single Malt Whisky
INDRI's Trini is its flagship expression and one of India's leading whiskies. Photo J Micallef Indri is one of India's most exciting premium whiskies. The brand embodies the country's dynamic evolution from low-priced, mass-market whisky blends to internationally acclaimed single malts. Rooted in the rich alluvial plains of Haryana near the Himalayan foothills, Indri stands at the crossroads of ancient Indian agricultural heritage and modern whisky craft. Below is a brief overview of the brand, along with tasting notes on its whisky range. Indri is named for the village where the distillery is situated, located in Karnal district, Haryana, Northern India. This area, historically part of the fertile agricultural belt between Delhi and the Himalayas, offers a unique microclimate: hot summers that encourage rapid flavor extraction from oak, tempered by cooler winters. The brisk winds from the nearby mountains enhance the diurnal and seasonal temperature variations. This natural setting is critical to Indri's whisky identity. Unlike India's older single malt pioneers located in tropical Goa or Bangalore, Indri's northern terroir shapes a maturation profile that is robust yet balanced, yielding malts with rich fruit, layered oak, and spice, but with a structural elegance and finesse that surprises many drinkers expecting, unbalanced, rapid, heat-driven maturation. The still room at the Piccadily Distillery Photo, courtesy Indri/Piccadily Distillery Piccadily Distilleries, part of the larger Piccadily Agro Industries Group, produces the whisky. The Piccadily brand was established in 1967 and today has three distilleries in Northern India: Indri, Patiala, and Bawal. The malt distillery in Indri was set up in 2012. Before launching Indri, Piccadily Distilleries had already gained a strong reputation domestically through brands like Whistler and Kamet. Seeing the international recognition of Indian single malt brands like Amrut and Paul John, Piccadily decided to leverage its expertise and invest in a world-class distillery dedicated to producing authentic single malt whisky. They installed six traditional copper pot stills, designed and manufactured in India, and sourced high-quality, indigenous six-row Indian barley from Rajasthan. They matured the spirit in a carefully curated mix of cask types, including ex-bourbon barrels, premium French red wine casks, and sweet Pedro Ximénez (PX) sherry casks. The first single malt bottling was released domestically in 2020 and internationally in 2021. The distillery's production philosophy focuses on small-batch craftsmanship and selective maturation. Because India's warm climate accelerates aging, with angel's share evaporation rates often double or triple those in Scotland, master distillers and blenders pay meticulous attention to cask management to avoid over-oaking the whisky while maximizing flavor concentration. INDRI's Whisky Core Range & Signature Style Indri is part of the new wave redefining Indian whisky. For decades, India was, and remains, the world's largest whisky market by volume, but it was dominated by inexpensive blends often made with molasses-based spirits. Brands like Amrut, Paul John, Rampur, and now Indri have transformed that perception by proving that India can produce single malts that stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best from Scotland, Japan, and beyond. INDRI, Trini Single Malt Scotch Whisky Photo, courtesy Ankit Nandwani Photography/Piccadily Ind. Indri's signature bottling is Trini – The Three Wood, a balanced, approachable single malt matured in three different cask types: ex-bourbon, French wine, and PX sherry. This triple-cask approach gives Trini a smooth, fruit-forward character with layered spice notes and a mellow sweetness. It's ideal for both new and experienced whisky drinkers. For more adventurous whisky enthusiasts, Indri offers more robust releases, such as the DRU (Distiller's Reserve Unfiltered) at cask strength. There are also several Single-Cask bottlings, including the 7-Year-Old Red Wine Cask. Each expression showcases the distillery's ability to push boundaries while staying true to its core identity. Across the range, Indri's whiskies consistently display a signature combination of ripe, succulent, orchard, and tropical fruits, along with persistent aromas of sweet, cooked cereal or malt. Its careful maturation is reflected in well-integrated seasoned oak notes surrounded by the typical wood spices of cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg. There is also a subtle touch of exotic India, as if the maturing whisky somehow absorbs the delicate aromas of the local spice market, Since its debut in 2020, Indri has rapidly gained recognition on the global stage. The brand has been a consistent medalist at international spirit competitions. Critics have praised its balanced profile, layered complexity, and value for money, solidifying Indri's place in the top tier of Indian single malt whiskies and emerging global single malt brands. Indri's accessible yet distinctive style appeals to both Indian drinkers looking for homegrown premium whisky and international enthusiasts eager to explore terroir-driven malts from new producers. Indri DRU Single Malt Whisky, 57.2% ABV, 750 ml. $84 INDRI, DRU Single Malt Scotch Whisky is another leading whisky expression from India Photo, courtesy Indri/Piccadily Distillery The DRU (Distiller's Reserve Unfiltered) Single Malt is part of a limited export range selected for its bold, cask-strength character. This expression shows off Indri's style at full power, unfiltered and bottled at natural cask strength. The whisky is intense and flavorful on the nose, featuring layered notes of caramel, dark honey, toasted oak, and a hint of dried tropical fruit. There's a touch of clove and roasted nuts, mingled with a persistent sweet, cooked malt note. It's robust with a notable mouth weight and a viscous mouth-coating texture. It features intense aromas of vanilla fudge, charred oak, caramel, dried stone fruit, especially apricots, dark chocolate, and hints of baking spices. The high proof intensifies the flavors, especially the spice notes. The finish is long, warming, and slightly drying, with lingering oak spice, hints of leather, a touch of sweetness, some mild pepperiness, and a persistent note of cooked cereal or malt. Indri 7 YO Single malt Whisky, Red Wine Single Cask #1746, The ImpEx Collection, 53.5% ABV, 750 ml. $139 This limited release is a single cask, seven-year-old Indri aged in a French red wine cask, a rare cask finish for Indian whisky. The red wine maturation adds a fruity, vinous layer that complements Indri's robust malt and spicy profile. Single Cask #1746 is part of a series showcasing small, collectible batches, bottled at full cask strength for richer flavor. The whisky features aromas of dark berries, black cherries, and spiced plum jam, set against a backdrop of creamy butterscotch, toasted oak, milk chocolate, and hints of red wine tannin, along with vanilla and baking spices. It's smooth and full-bodied on the palate, expressing jam-like notes of stewed/cooked red berries, caramelized sugar, and a touch of clove. The wine cask influence brings subtle tannins and a silky, mouth-coating texture. The finish is long and succulent, with lingering notes of red fruit jam, hints of chocolate, and oak spice. A gentle, dry note from the wine tannins perfectly balances the whisky's fruity richness. Indri Single Malt Indian Whisky, Trini 'The Three Wood', 46% ABV, 750 ml. $58 Trini — The Three Wood is Indri's signature core expression and the distillery's first widely distributed single malt. It's matured in three types of casks: ex-bourbon, French wine, and PX sherry, creating a layered, approachable profile that highlights the distillery's elegant Indian malt and careful wood management. The whisky is rich and inviting on the nose, featuring a layered complexity of honeyed malt, orchard fruit, caramel, a hint of vanilla, and subtle notes of golden raisins and oak wood spices. It's smooth and medium-bodied on the palate with a noticeable Sherry cask influence showcasing dried fruits and subtle wood spices along with sweet, cooked malt/cereal, caramel, ripe pear, honey, and seasoned oak. The finish is long, well-defined, and lightly warming, with sweet dried fruit, subtle pepper, and lingering notes of vanilla, roasted nuts, and seasoned oak. From its fertile fields in the shadow of the Himalayas to your glass, Indri represents India's bold step into the world of fine single malt whisky. It's a perfect example of how local grain, careful craft, and an adventurous spirit can craft a world-class whisky. If you are unfamiliar with India's single malt whisky, you should explore it, and Indri should be at the top of your list. More From Forbes Forbes India's Whisky Revolution: Rising Stars Of Single Malt By Joseph V Micallef Forbes The Top Single Malt Scotch Whisky, According To The International Wine And Spirit Competition By Joseph V Micallef Forbes The World's Best Single Malt Scotch Whisky, According To The London Spirits Competition By Joseph V Micallef
Forbes
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
2025's Best Single Malt Irish Whiskeys According To BevTest
Knappogue Castle 21 YO was the highest rated Irish Single Malt Whiskey at the 2025 BevTest Judging Photo, J Micallef The 2025 Beverage Testing Institute (BevTest) Irish whiskey judging has announced the top Irish whiskeys of the year. One exceptional Irish single malt whiskey received a prestigious Platinum medal, while four other single malts and two single grain whiskeys earned Gold medals. If you're looking for the best Irish single malt or award-winning grain whiskey, these top-rated whiskeys are your essential starting point. A limited-edition blend of ex-bourbon and sherry cask-matured malts aged for 21 years, showcasing the brand's excellence in single malt blending. The whiskey received 96 points and a Platinum medal, the highest score for any single malt whiskey. On the nose, the whiskey offers aromas of dried apricot, toasted almond, candied citrus, and seasoned oak. The palate is rich and flavorful, with a layered complexity showcasing flavors of cooked cereal, honey, dried fruits, leather, and oak spices. The finish is long and warming, with lingering notes of Sherry, nutmeg, and oak. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'brown butter, dried apricots, and fudge. The palate reveals flavors of baked walnuts, ginger, and pear compote. Rich and balanced, with notes of spice and baked goods, complemented by brown butter and pear.' Another single malt from Knappogue Castle, one of Ireland's top whiskey makers. The whiskey is non-chill-filtered and aged in ex-bourbon barrels. It received a score of 94/100 points and a gold medal. The whiskey features aromas of green apple, vanilla, and ripe tropical fruit. It's fruity on the palate, revealing flavors of orchard and tropical fruits, lemon curd, and creamy caramel. The finish is medium-length, with lingering notes of candied citrus zest and subtle oak spices. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as exhibiting aromas of 'apple spice cake, cinnamon toast, and marigold. The palate presents similar flavors with hints of allspice, spiced apples, and nasturtium. If you're looking for the definition of 'pot still whiskey,' this is it – hits every note and then some.' A glass of Irish whiskey on the rocks with a cigar. getty Knappogue Castle 16-Year-Old Sherry Cask-Finished Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 43% Abv. 750 ml. $115 Aged for 14 years in bourbon casks and finished in Oloroso Sherry casks for 2 years, this expression combines sweetness with rich sherry notes. It scored 94/100 points and earned a gold medal. The whiskey offers aromas of golden raisins, toasted walnuts, dark chocolate, and wood spices. The palate is full-bodied and smooth, featuring flavors of toffee, dried figs, red berries, roasted nuts, and Sherry notes. The finish is long and luxurious, with lingering notes of dried fruit and oak. The Bev Test Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'spiced butter, Banana Foster, and pound cake. The palate features flavors of apple buckwheat pancakes, peach-fig-pecan pie, and vanilla ice cream. It has a bold, peach-forward style with spiced bakery notes—like warm treats fresh from the oven; a whiskey best enjoyed on the rocks or in an elevated Old Fashioned.' Method and Madness 14-Year-Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 46% ABV, 750 ml. $97 This limited-edition whiskey from Midleton combines traditional Irish single malt distillation with a French Limousin oak finish. The whiskey earned a gold medal with a score of 92 out of 100. The whiskey features aromas of lemon oil, white pepper, coconut, and poached pear. It's flavorful, creamy, and herbal on the palate, with notes of fresh citrus, cooked cereal, clove, and seasoned oak. The finish is long and elegant, with lingering hints of lemon custard, wood spices, and vanilla. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'kettle corn, vanilla pudding, and toasted almonds. The palate presents flavors of honey, walnut shavings, and buttered popcorn. It is light and bright with delicate flavors and fresh vanilla bean notes, ideal for cocktails.' Knappogue Castle 12-Year-Old Bourbon Cask-Matured Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 43% ABV, 750 ml. $69 Aged entirely in ex-bourbon barrels, this is Knappogue Castle's flagship, known for its clean, fruit-forward character and classic Irish malt style. This expression earned a gold medal with a score of 92/100. The whiskey exhibits aromas of honey, fresh apple, vanilla, and cooked cereal. It's light and elegant on the palate, highlighting ripe orchard fruit, toasted cereal, and baking spices. The finish is long, crisp, and balanced, with lingering sweetness and subtle oak. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'cinnamon multigrain toast, peach, and sugar cookie. The palate features frosted honey buns, baking spices, and black tea with milk & honey. Ripe and addictingly sippable with warm, comforting flavors.' The Midleton Distillery Experience at the Midleton Distillery where Method & Madness is produced. getty Method and Madness Single Grain Irish Whiskey, 46% ABV, 750 ml $59 Crafted at the Midleton Micro Distillery, this experimental expression showcases a corn-based single grain whiskey aged in ex-bourbon barrels and finished in virgin Spanish oak. The whiskey earned a gold medal and received a score of 95/100 points. The whiskey exhibits aromas of freshly sawn oak, vanilla cream, citrus zest, and candy corn. It's sweet and smooth on the palate, revealing flavors of honey, cooked cereal, toasted coconut, apricot, and subtle wood spices. The finish is long and brisk, with lingering notes of vanilla and gentle pepper. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'baguette, plum crème Anglaise, and caramelized pear. Flavors: The palate features similar flavors with hints of crème caramel, marzipan, and wildflower honey. Rich, caramelized, and velvety with a long, complex, dry finish, you can taste the freshness of the Irish grains - enjoy neat or on a single rock with a dash of fine bitters.' Powers Irish Rye Whiskey, 43.2% ABV, 750 ml. Introduced in 2022, this is Ireland's first modern 100% Irish rye whiskey. It's produced at Midleton Distillery using a mash bill of 100% Irish-grown rye and aged in virgin oak. The rye whiskey received a score of 93/100 points and earned a gold medal. The whiskey offers aromas of earthy rye spice, apple, honey, and nutmeg. It's rich and flavorful on the palate, revealing notes of cooked cereal, rye toast, rye spices—especially clove, white pepper, and toffee. The finish is long, dry, and peppery, with a hint of cinnamon and a sweet cereal note. The BevTest Judging panel described the whiskey as featuring aromas of 'roasted candied walnuts, chocolate, and cherry crème brûlée. The palate showcases flavors of cinnamon toast, ripe apple, and nutmeg cider. Warm and delightfully complex, this blended Irish will turn heads as it over-delivers with wood-roasted, fruity, and lightly spiced flavors.' Whether you're a collector, enthusiast, or simply looking for the best Irish whiskey to try in 2025, these award-winning expressions offer unmatched quality and complexity. The Beverage Testing Institute's top-rated Irish whiskeys feature everything from ultra-aged single malts to innovative grain whiskies finished in exotic oak. Don't miss the opportunity to explore these exceptional spirits, each representing Ireland's whiskey renaissance and a must-have for any serious whiskey lover. More From Forbes Forbes The Top Irish Whiskeys, According To The Irish Whiskey Awards By Joseph V Micallef
Forbes
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
2025's Best Irish Pot Still Whiskeys, According To BevTest
The Redbreast Pot Still Whiskey range were among the top whiskeys at the BevTest 2025 Judging Photo, J Micallef Irish pot still whiskey is in a golden age, and the 2025 Beverage Testing Institute judging shows that. Known for its strict standards and expert panel, BevTest awarded four Irish single pot still expressions with coveted Platinum medals, each scoring 96 points or higher. An additional 18 pot still whiskeys won Gold, demonstrating that Ireland's most traditional whiskey style continues to elevate the standards for flavor, complexity, and craftsmanship. From bold cask-strength releases to refined age-statement classics, these award-winning whiskeys are redefining what it means to enjoy Irish whiskey. A rare ultra-aged pot still release, matured in a selection of bourbon and oloroso sherry hogsheads. The Redbreast 27 YO has consistently been recognized as the top Irish Pot Still Whiskey at international spirit competitions. With 97/100 points, it was awarded a Platinum medal and was the highest-rated pot still whiskey. The whiskey is incredibly aromatic with layered complexity, featuring dried figs, dark fruit, golden raisins, orange marmalade, seasoned oak, and various wood spices. It's smooth and flavorful on the palate, presenting flavors of candied ginger, dried dark fruit, chocolate, chai spices, and baked pear. The finish is long, sweet, and rich, with lingering notes of cinnamon, leather, molasses, and sherry-laced fruits. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as expressing 'aromas of spiced apple, maple oatmeal, and grilled spiced banana bread. The palate features flavors of dried apples, cinnamon biscuits, and pepper jelly. Massively dense, punchy, and powerful.' Crafted at Midleton Micro-distillery, this experimental pot still whiskey explores different cask types and finishes. It received a score of 96 out of 100 points, earning a Platinum medal. The whiskey offers aromas of lemon zest, barley sugar, and wildflowers. It is rich and textured on the palate, revealing flavors of orchard fruit, mint, and various wood spices. The finish is long and fresh, with lingering herbal and citrus notes. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'eggnog, dark chocolate, and buttercream frosting. The palate presents flavors of maple syrup, caramelized bananas, cinnamon, cocoa, brioche, and pie crust. Rich, decadent, and exceptionally balanced, this takes you on a journey from handcrafted pastry and fresh pumpkin to notes of dried heirloom pears, pie crust, and toasted pistachios; remarkable.' Blue Spot 7-Year-Old Cask Strength, 58.4% ABV, 750 ml. $90 A premium sibling to Green Spot, this whiskey features a higher ABV and a richer oak flavor. It received a score of 96/100 and earned a Platinum medal. The whiskey offers aromas of ripe pear, oak spice, and toasted barley. It's rich and smooth on the palate, revealing flavors of orange marmalade, fresh orchard fruits, cooked cereal, and various wood spices. The finish is long and sweet, with lingering notes of honey, orchard fruit, and seasoned oak. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as expressing aromas of 'Bananas Foster, maple nut fudge, and malted chocolate milkshake. The palate features similar flavors along with spiced floral honey, caramelized fruits, and pepper. A monumentally flavorful and warming full-strength Irish whiskey with a seemingly endless finish; impressive.' Two shot glasses of Irish whiskey. getty Redbreast 21-Year-Old Single Pot Still Whiskey, 46% ABV, 750 ml. $230 A complex and expressive whiskey, aged in various casks including both bourbon and sherry. The 21-year-old received a score of 96/100 and earned a Platinum medal. The whisky has aromas of orange oil and fresh orange peel, walnut, golden raisins, cinnamon, and nutmeg. It is rich on the palate, offering notes of spiced Christmas cake, dark caramel, and baked orchard fruits. The finish is long and warming, with lingering hints of wood spices and seasoned oak. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'wildflower honey, white roses, and almond paste. The palate offers flavors of plum pudding, spiced pear, and buttered soda bread. A beautiful nose leads to a warm, lightly spiced palate and a long, balanced finish – this will make an excellent cigar pairing.' Redbreast 12-Year-Old Cask Strength, 57.5% Abv, 750 ml. $107 A benchmark pot still whisky. The cask strength version offers a more intense and flavorful take on the 12 YO Redbreast, with a higher ABV impact. It scored 95/100 points and was awarded a gold medal. The whiskey offers aromas of orchard fruit, toasted cereal, and bold wood spices. On the palate, it is flavorful and rich, revealing juicy apples, honey, cooked cereal, and brown sugar. The finish is long and intense, with lingering orchard fruits and spices. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as exhibiting aromas of 'dark chocolate peanut butter, peach cobbler, and S'mores. The palate showcased flavors of brioche caramel rolls, brownie corners, and spiced pecans. Decadent and spicy, delivering decadent layers of flavor that are remarkably smooth and silky, opens up significantly with a bit of water - would make a world-class Blue Blazer cocktail.' Powers Three Swallow Release Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, 40% ABV, 750 ml. $53 Powers Three Swallow is another perennial gold medalist at international spirit competitions. It scored 95/100 points and was awarded a gold medal. The whiskey offers rich aromas of citrus zest, barley sugar, and warm spices. On the palate, it presents tangy, zesty fruits complemented by honey and black pepper. The finish is long and lively, with lingering notes of mixed fruits and spices. The Jameson Heritage Centre in Midleton Co. Cork, 12 miles east of Cork City on the main Cork Waterford Road. getty Midleton Very Rare Barry Crockett Legacy, 46% ABV, 750 ml. $93 A luxury annual release honoring legendary master distiller Barry Crockett. It was awarded a gold medal and scored 94/100 points. The whiskey offers aromas of sweet, honeyed malt, toasted hazelnut, white pepper, and nougat. It's rich and flavorful on the palate, revealing flavors of creamy lemon tart, nut brittle, marzipan, and subtle oak. The finish is long and indulgent, with lingering notes of cooked cereal, vanilla, and almonds. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as revealing aromas of 'spiced dried fruits, nutty coffee cake, and peppery Mexican chocolate. The palate presents similar flavors along with hints of root beer float, crème brûlée with sautéed mango, and a variety of baking spices. It is a remarkably spicy and layered Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey with excellent flavor integration.' Yellow Spot 12-Year-Old, 46% ABV, 750 ml. $92 The whiskey is matured in bourbon, sherry, and Malaga (a sweet dessert-style wine) casks and aged for 12 years. The whiskey scored 94 points and won a gold medal. The whiskey offers aromas of stone fruit, honeycomb, and marzipan. It feels rich and viscous on the palate, highlighting ripe peach, Crème Brûlée, and candied orange zest. The finish is full-bodied and initially sweet, with lingering notes of roasted nuts and wood spices. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of caramel apples, baking spices, and cinnamon raisin toast. The palate offers flavors of melted butter, white pepper, pineapple, caramel, and honey, along with notes of Sherry, nuts, and tropical fruits. Also winning gold medals, all scoring 94/100 points were Green Spot Leoville Barton Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey; Redbreast 12-Year-Old Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey; Redbreast 10-Year-Old Distillery Edition Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey; Powers John's Lane 12-Year-Old Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey and Powers John's Lane 12-Year-Old Cask Strength Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey. Scoring 93/100 points and winning gold medals were Jameson Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, Green Spot Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, Green Spot Chateau Montelena Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, and Redbreast Iberian Series Lustau Edition Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey. Red Spot 15-Year-Old Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, Redbreast Cuatro Barriles Edition Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, and Redbreast 18-Year-Old Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey received Gold medals with 93/100 points. In comparison, Redbreast 15-Year-Old Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey earned a Gold medal with 91/100 points. Redbreast Pedro Ximenez Edition Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey scored 90 points and a Gold medal. From the legendary depth of Redbreast 27-Year-Old to the innovation of Method and Madness, the 2025 BevTest results showcase the unmatched range and quality of Irish pot still whiskey. With expressions that span from bold and spicy to elegant and dessert-like, these whiskeys reflect a dynamic category rooted in heritage but driven by innovation. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or new to the world of pot still, these medalists are the best place to start—and they prove that Irish whiskey deserves a prime spot on every connoisseur's shelf. More From Forbes
Forbes
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
The Best Irish Blended Whiskey, According To The Beverage Testing Inst
Jameson Bow Street 18 YO Blended Whiskey at the Midleton Distillery Photo, J Micallef Looking for the best Irish blended whiskeys of 2025? The Beverage Testing Institute (BevTest) has just announced its top winners, highlighting the most exceptional Irish blends of the year. One whiskey received a prestigious Platinum medal. Eight additional blends earned Gold medals. Whether you're a whiskey enthusiast or a curious newcomer, these are the top-rated Irish blended whiskeys you should explore now. A premium blend of pot still and grain whiskeys aged 18 years and matured in first-fill bourbon and Sherry casks at the historic Bow Street distillery in Dublin. Bottled at cask strength, it delivers bold intensity. The whiskey received a Platinum medal and scored 96/100 points. The whiskey offers aromas of rich toffee, dried fig, toasted oak, and cinnamon. It's full-bodied and creamy on the palate, with notes of honeycomb, dark chocolate, baking spices, caramel, and vanilla. The finish is long and warm, with lingering notes of toasted oak, wood spices, and Sherry-infused fruit. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'toasted coconut custard pie, raisin bread pudding, and spiced cherries. The palate offers flavors of crème brûlée, a wide range of baking spices, and honey. An incredibly rich and decadent, world-class barrel-proof Irish Blended Whiskey that is a titan in its category.' This whiskey is a blend of three distinct distillates, aged in a combination of American ex-bourbon and European sherry casks for nearly two decades. This refined blend highlights the depth and complexity of mature Irish whiskey. The whiskey scored 94/100 points and received a gold medal. The whisky offers aromas of seasoned wood, stewed fruit, caramelized banana, and nutmeg. It's smooth and silky on the palate with flavors of dark toffee, roasted nuts, stone fruit, and hints of sherry sweetness. The finish is long and refined, with lingering notes of oak spice and dried apricot. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as revealing aromas of 'toffee, caramel apple, and marmalade on raisin toast. The palate includes flavors of spiced nuts, sarsaparilla, and butter pecan ice cream. It is a superb Irish whiskey full of enticing aromas and flavors that finish with a lingering warming sensation; a must-try with cigars.' A view of wooden barrels of Jameson Whiskey at the entrance to Old Distillery in Midleton, County Cork. (Photo by Artur Widak/NurPhoto via Getty Images) NurPhoto via Getty Images Midleton Very Rare 2025 Irish Whiskey, 40% ABV, 750 ml. $200 Midleton's annual Very Rare release features carefully selected single pot still and grain whiskeys aged 12–25 years. The 2025 edition continues the tradition of sophisticated, ultra-premium elegance. The whisky received a gold medal with a score of 94/100. The whiskey features aromas of honeysuckle, vanilla, candied citrus, and sandalwood. On the palate, it's smooth and creamy, with a layered complexity that highlights orchard fruit, marzipan, seasoned oak, and notes of cooked cereal. The finish is long and rich, with lingering hints of vanilla cream and spiced fruit compote. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'cinnamon, yellow apple, and nutmeg. The palate offers toasted oak, dried apple, and peanut shell. Spicy, nutty, and toasty, it's a warm and enjoyable Irish whiskey to share with friends.' Jameson Triple Triple Sherry Bourbon & Malaga Edition Irish Blended Whiskey, 40% ABV, 750 ml. $33 This exclusive, globally available travel retail expression is exceptionally priced, triple-distilled, and matured in bourbon, sherry, and sweet Malaga wine casks. The whiskey received a score of 93 points and a gold medal. The whiskey is rich and aromatic, with notes of dried fruits, raisins, orange zest, and toasted almonds. It's full-bodied and smooth on the palate, highlighting flavors of fig jam, toffee, milk chocolate, and subtle baking spices. The finish is long and sweet, with lingering hints of honeyed fruit and a hint of Malaga dessert wine. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'marzipan, golden raisins, and cinnamon. The palate offers flavors of baked pear, black pepper, and red delicious apple. Elegant and exceptionally balanced, you'll want to sip this delightful whiskey.' Accord Stone Irish Whiskey, 50% ABV, 750 ml. $70 Accord Stone, a lesser-known blended Irish whiskey, is a boutique brand that focuses on smoothness. It received a score of 93/100 and a gold medal. The whiskey offers notes of honey, vanilla, green apple, and cooked cereal. It's smooth and easy to sip, with hints of butterscotch, cooked cereal, and citrus. The finish is medium-length but smooth, with a lingering sweetness of cooked cereal. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as showcasing aromas of 'buttery toffee, honey-roasted grains, and maple syrup. The palate offers flavors of roasted nuts, dried apple, and pear. It is a bold, rich, and unusually textured Irish whiskey, infused with aromas and flavors from Sherry and bourbon barrels.' Bottles of Jameson Irish Whiskey. Jameson Irish Whiskey is produced by Pernod Ricard and is the largest selling Irish Whiskey in the world. getty Jameson Black Barrel Irish Blended Whiskey, 40% ABV, 750 ml. $38 A mix of small-batch grain and traditional pot still whiskeys, aged in double-charred bourbon barrels for enhanced depth and smoothness. The whiskey earned a gold medal with 92/100 points. The whiskey offers aromas of butterscotch, charred wood, nutmeg, and vanilla. It's full-bodied and rich on the palate, with flavors of caramel, spice cake, molasses, and toasted oak. The finish is smooth, smoky, and sweet, with lingering hints of cinnamon and cocoa. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as exhibiting aromas of 'grilled peach, caramelized pineapple, and clove. The palate offers flavors of baked apple, sweet corn, and pear. A fine Irish whiskey to enjoy on its own or in a cocktail—smooth and enjoyable in every aspect.' Jameson Crested Irish Blended Whiskey, 40% ABV, 750 ml. $45 One of Jameson's older labels, Crested combines pot still and grain whiskey, with a strong sherry cask influence, delivering a richer, sweeter profile than the classic Jameson. The whisky scored 91/100 points and a gold medal. The whiskey exhibits aromas of red berries, sherried wood, milk chocolate, and citrus peel. It's smooth and sweet on the palate, revealing flavors of cooked cereal/malt, ripe plum, chocolate, toasted nuts, and subtle oak spices. The finish is long and sweet, with warming oak and dried fruit. The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as exhibiting aromas of baked apple, custard, and bread dough. The palate reveals flavors of baked quince, cheese Danish, and fig. An elegant, blended Irish whiskey to enjoy on the rocks and in well-crafted cocktails. Also winning gold medals, with 90/100 points, were Jameson Caskmates IPA Edition Irish Blended Whiskey, 40% ABV, 750 ml, $35, and Jameson Triple Triple Sherry Bourbon & Sicilian Marsala Edition Irish Blended Whiskey, 40% ABV, 750 ml, $33. Both scored 90/100 points. From the rare intensity of Jameson Bow Street 18-Year-Old to the exceptional value of Triple Triple and Caskmates, the 2025 BevTest results demonstrate that Irish blended whiskey continues to set the global standard for smoothness, complexity, and approachability. With multiple Gold and Platinum medal winners, especially from Jameson and Midleton, these blends provide both premium quality and remarkable variety. Whether enjoyed neat or mixed into a sophisticated cocktail, these top Irish blended whiskeys are essential additions to every whiskey lover's collection in 2025. More From Forbes Forbes Top Irish Single Malt Whiskey, According To The San Francisco World Spirits Competition By Joseph V Micallef Forbes The Top Irish Whiskeys, According To The Irish Whiskey Awards By Joseph V Micallef Forbes The San Francisco World Spirits Competition Crowns The Top Irish Blended Whiskey By Joseph V Micallef
