American

Whiskey Review: Ransom Spirits The Emerald 1865

We review Ransom Spirits The Emerald 1865, an Irish style whiskey from an Oregon distillery which we find rather unique and delicious.

OVERALL RATING

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Ransom Spirits The Emerald 1865

Tasting Notes

About:

87.6 proof. Aged three years in French and American Oak. Direct-fired, alembic pot distilled. $80.
Appearance:
Bright amber.
Nose:
I notice two distinct categories of aroma, both quite inviting: a malty, grassy fragrance and sweet, spoiled fruit (apple and plum). There’s a compelling contrast between the fresh grassy scents and the smell of fruit turning to puddles in the crisper.
Palate:
Opens sweetly, but only for a moment. Then it’s almost mushroomy—remarkably earthy and herbaceous. There’s a very faint hint of smoke and wine cask dregs. The long finish is spicy and mildly bitter. The alcohol heat weaves itself into my sip as an integrated part of the flavor, rather than a distraction. It reminds me of a Belgian beer-washed cheese that is both bold and intricate—coyly offering an array of flavors, some more appealing than others, in quick succession. Conclusion: The Emerald 1865 is unique and delicious—two terms that more or less describe everything I hope to find in an unfamiliar glass of whiskey. Have I now experienced the Irish whiskey of yesteryear? No clue—after all, none of us know what the hell Irish whiskey circa 1865 tasted like. In any case, I’m quite certain I’ve just tasted a well-conceived and well-executed spirit from a source that proves how valuable a determined, innovative, and genuinely passionate micro-distillery can be. FINAL SCORE: 90/100
Finish:
Comments:

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Mark Bilbrey

Mark Bilbrey, a poet, writer, editor, and cheese connoisseur, brings his multifaceted talents to the world of whisky. After a fulfilling career as an English professor, Mark embarked on a new journey, founding ParagraphDoctor.com and relocating to Portland. In his free time, he enjoys exploring the realms of birds, bourbon, and breweries, and is known to enliven karaoke nights with his spirited performances

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