Description
Aroma
The initial whiff is a delightful invitation. A wave of orchard fruits greets you first, with notes of spiced apple and ripe pear. Imagine a freshly baked apple pie, its warm aroma infused with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg. This fruitiness is the defining characteristic of Knappogue Castle 21 Year Old and sets the stage for the rest of the tasting experience. Beneath the orchard fruits, a subtle hint of dried apricot might emerge, adding a touch of complexity and hinting at the extended aging period.
Palate
The first sip confirms the promise of the aroma – a luxurious and complex experience. The spiced apple and ripe pear notes translate beautifully onto the palate, offering a burst of juicy sweetness balanced by the gentle warmth of the spices. Don’t miss the underlying sweetness of honey, adding a touch of richness and depth. This isn’t your typical honey sweetness, though. Imagine honey that’s been aged for several years, developing a deeper and more complex character. As the whiskey lingers on your tongue, hints of rich pastry might emerge, like a buttery croissant or a hint of shortbread. These notes add a delightful textural quality to the experience.
Midpalate
As the whiskey opens up on your palate, subtle hints of oak influence begin to emerge. Don’t expect overpowering oak here. Due to the use of ex-bourbon casks, the oak character is more about subtlety and complexity. Imagine a whisper of clove or a touch of baking spice like nutmeg. These notes add a gentle warmth and prevent the sweetness from becoming cloying.
Finish
The finish of Knappogue Castle 21 Year Old is long and warming, a testament to the extended aging. The sweetness of the fruit and honey fades slowly, leaving a lingering memory of the flavors. The spice notes from the oak and the fruit might become more noticeable in the finish, creating a pleasant dryness that ensures a clean and refreshing conclusion.
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