Connemara 12 Year Old

Connemara 12 Year Old is an Irish single malt whiskey from the Cooley distillery, distinguished by the use of peat smoke in the drying of the malt – which is quite unusual for Irish whiskey. It has matured for at least 12 years in ex-bourbon casks, gaining depth, maturity, and a combination of gentle smokiness with sweeter fruity notes.

In color, it presents a light golden hue with straw reflections, indicating gentle aging and oak casks. The aroma is dominated by subtle peat smoke, mingling with green apple, pear, heather honey, and hints of vanilla and sweet grain malt. Those bright fruity notes (e.g., pear or apple) add freshness, while the smoke and oak spice bring complexity.

The taste is medium-bodied, smooth, with the sweetness of vanilla and honey, followed by fruity notes - green apples, perhaps pear - complemented by a gentle spicy smokiness. The peat here is not aggressive, rather a subtle undertone that gives the whiskey character without being overpowering. The overall profile is elegantly sweet-smoky, with a distinct balance between sweet and earthier elements.

We recommend serving it best neat, at room temperature, in a tulip or Glencairn glass, to allow the aromas of smoke, fruit, and malt to open up. A little water can help release the finer notes. It also pairs well after a meal as a digestif.