Clontarf 1014 Irish Whiskey is named for a battle that took place in the year 1014 in Clontarf, near Dublin, in which an Irish king defeated an army of Vikings. It was a gruesome fight, but fortunately for us, it inspired this easy drinking whiskey.
Formerly known as Clontarf Classic Blend, this whiskey was repackaged and renamed in 2011 to the whiskey we see here. It’s tripled distilled and aged in bourbon barrels.
On the nose, Clontarf 1014 is light and friendly, with notes of grains and honey leading the charge. Take a sip, and things remain mostly the same–light and easy, but this time some dried fruits and citrus shine through alongside sweet malts and mild oak. It finishes short and dry.
There’s nothing spectacular happening here, but it sure is drinkable. So if you’re looking for a simple Irish whiskey to mix into cocktails, spruce up some ginger beer or otherwise guzzle, this might be the one. It competes admirably with the Bushmills and Jamesons of the world, and at roughly $20, you don’t have to think too hard about picking up a bottle for Saint Patrick’s Day.
Stats:
— 40 % ABV
— $20
CE Rating: ★★★
