Irish whiskey as a category is vast and far-reaching, yet it remains dominated by a few household brands. Beyond the Bushmills and Jamesons of the industry, a clamoring crowd of distillers churn out release after release, pouring heart and soul into whiskeys they hope will trigger a spark in a drinker’s eye. It isn’t much different from up-and-coming bands, powered by passion and the certainty that, somewhere out in the world, someone’s ears are searching for just that perfect sound.
Slane has been rockin’ for decades. Not Slane, just as in Slane Whiskey, but the village of Slane as a whole. Ireland’s historic Slane Castle has been on the ledger since the land was first purchased in 1703, with the castle itself being built in the 18th Century. Now, it plays host to a diverse roster of musical guests since the front lawn was transformed into an iconic rock music venue in 1981. More than 40 years later, Slane Castle has played host to some of the biggest music acts on the planet and attracted visitors from all over the world.
Iconic Music Meets Irish Whiskey
Given the 40th anniversary of the venue’s first show in 1981 has only recently passed, Slane Whiskey has decided to pay tribute to Lord Henry Conyngham and his vision of bringing Ireland together through music by raising a glass to Slane Castle. Enter the Slane Special Edition Irish Whiskey.
Slane, a distillery rooted in music history more than many would expect, has released a special edition of its standard release. Triple casking is standard for Slane — it matures its whiskey in a combination of American, Virgin, and Sherried oak casks and then blends 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 45-rpm records. Created to remember the legacy of 1981 and the iconic concerts held at the Slane Castle that year and beyond, this release comes to market to us here living in 2022, ready for a pour.
Diving into the Flavors
On the nose, it’s sweet and buttery, filled with tons of honey and fresh buttercream. There’s a touch of pepper and oak, and it’s loaded with peach gummy ring sweetness, rising bread, and a pleasant fruitiness. I often find notes of peaches, peach rings, and other tropical candies in Irish whiskey, which I attribute to the grain and the distinctive pot still distillation. Delicious, light, nostalgic.
On the palate, this whiskey has a moderate mouthfeel with plenty of character. Slane’s Special Edition isn’t too oaky or dry, and neither is it too sweet or fruity. Baking spice leads, followed by almond, honey, apricots, vanilla cream, and Werther's caramels. The extra Virgin Oak is apparent with the addition of more baking spice, honey, and a light spice of ginger on the back of the palate. Last but not least, drinkers can expect a long finish that’s surprisingly complex. Toffee, crème brûlée, pleasant sweetness within. Lots of wood influence here which is welcome. Caramelized sugars, buttercream, and plum.
Overall, Slane’s newest bottling stands pretty impressive. The virgin oak adds a welcome air of complexity, bringing together a sweet, enticing, fruit-filled dram.
In Closing
I’m thankful that Slane didn’t pepper the anniversary date too boldly on this packaging — it could easily be mistaken for an age statement or a year of distillation. Nevertheless, it has managed to capture the spirit of Slane Castle, with some rocker vibes throughout.
The new characteristic of the whiskey, with the additional Virgin Oak influence, is apparent both in the glass and on the bottling, which is welcome in a world of cryptic, hard-to-decipher bottlings from brands old and new. The Virgin Oak adds more sweetness and spice, as a fresh barrel is always sure to do, and really gives Slane’s newest whiskey an extra, amplified push. Coupled with its accessibility and affordability, Slane makes the perfect companion to your favorite album of choice.
Trailblazers Sip responsibly.
Blended Irish Whiskey, 40% Alc. by Vol. Imported by Brown-Forman Beverages, Louisville, KY.
Slane is a registered trademark. ©2022 Slane Castle Irish Whiskey Ltd.
