This whiskey is the first to be launched from the Slane Distillery in Ireland. This is located on the grounds of the famous Slane Castle, which is renowned for its music concerts and setting within the Boyne Valley to the west of Drogheda. The distillery began production in Summer 2018 and this remains the core release. The whiskey is created using a unique trio of casks for an Irish whiskey – virgin American oak, seasoned American oak and ex-Oloroso sherry casks. Other Slane expressions include Batch Strength, Special Edition and Extra Sherry Wood.
The Slane distillery is owned by Brown-Forman, the American drinks company that own Jack Daniel’s, Woodford Reserve and Old Forester along with a selection of other spirit brands. The distillery and whiskey have been created by Brown Forman and working alongside the Conyngham family, who owned the rights to the Slane whiskey brand and name. They also own Slane Castle and its grounds. It is one of the premium examples of the new wave of Irish whiskey production.
Slane Triple Cask is bottled at 40% ABV and is widely available in bars, supermarkets and specialist whiskey retailers. A bottle should cost around £27-£30.
Our Tasting Notes
On the nose this whiskey is quite robust with pronounced oak spice, rich fruity notes (especially dark dried fruits like raisins and currants, maybe even rum n’ raisin ice cream), butterscotch, earthy spices (ginger in particular) and vanilla. Underlying this is a soft creamy butterscotch-like tone and a hint of cherry blossom that promise great depth.
On the palate the creamy characteristic hits you upfront. This is reminiscent of good vanilla ice cream. It feels soft, rich and fruity. A distinct caramelised peach sweetness combines with oak, plum jam and vanilla. Further notes of dark dried fruits (raisins again, plus some dark cherry) and warm baking spices (think gingerbread and a hint of cinnamon) add depth. There are hints of black treacle, marzipan, mocha and milk chocolate in the background. With time the whiskey develops in dryness and becomes more savoury.
The finish can definitely be described as drying as well as loaded with earthy spices, but through this it holds a hint of sweetness to bring in balance. The fruitiness fades to reveal plenty of oak, robust malt and a pinch of white pepper.
What’s The Verdict?
This is a characterful whiskey that is bolder and richer than most other Irish whiskies on the market. The whiskey feels robust and malty, and the unique tilogy of casks also play their part. This whiskey drinks well straight or with ice or water. It would also stand up well in a cocktail, making it a very versatile whiskey. Make an Irish coffee with this and you will be in for a treat. Definitely worth a try of you see it in a bar.
