More to Enjoy
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Intro:
Slane, a distillery rooted in music more than many would expect, has released a special edition of their standard release. Deemed the Extra Virgin Oak Special Edition, you may have less trouble deciphering the play here compared to other brands and their cryptic limited edition names. Triple casking is standard for Slane - they mature their whiskey in a combination of American, Virgin and Sherried oak casks and then blend to release. In this case, the volume of Virgin Oak has been bumped up, as has the proof. Now playing at 45% ABV, it's an ode to the record industry and 45rpm records. Created to remember the legacy of 1981 and the iconic concerts held at the Slane Castle that year, this release comes to market to us here living in 2022 ready for a pour. Let's dive in.
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Nose:
Sweet and buttery on the nose, tons of honey and fresh butter cream. Touch of pepper and oak, filled with peach ring sweetness, rising bread and a pleasant fruitiness.
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Taste:
Moderate mouthfeel, plenty of character. Not too oaky or dry, not too sweet or fruity. Baking spice leads, followed by slivered almond, honey, apricots, vanilla cream, Werther's caramels.
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Finish:
Long finish, surprisingly complex. Toffee, creme brulee, pleasant sweetness. Lots of wood influence here which is welcome. Caramelized sugars, butter cream and plum.
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Overall:
Overall, pretty impressive. The virgin oak adds a welcome air of complexity, bringing together a sweet, enticing, fruit filled dram.
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Score:
6
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Disclosure: The producer provided this sample to review free of charge, and without expectation of review or rating.
- Our in house critic rates spirits on a scale of 0-10 (10 best) and is aggregated the same as external sources