An art in classic Irish whiskey distillations with a focus on aging in an American way. Natterjack is named so after a type of toad. Distinctive and set apart by the yellow line that runs across its body, it is the only toad species that is native to Ireland and is a perfect way to represent a brand that also stands out from the crowd. This is Blend No. 1 – a combination of 20% malted barley and 80% corn, already quite different. Aged in ex-Bourbon casks and finished in virgin oak, it provides this whiskey with a rather strong American backbone with Irish flair in and around it.
A great introductory offering to any brand. You can see this being a default pick for both home drinkers and bartenders.
Having those classic vanilla and caramel notes of many Irish whiskeys but with a stronger presence of oak and warming spices from the virgin oak influences allow this to have a fair bit of depth for an intro product.
The ginger notes are fairly incredible on this, it’s almost as if you’ve got this pre-made ginger beer cocktail ready to go that’s spritzed with fresh lemon and lime. Those little sweet touches in the palate from the corn give the spiciness more character and depth, then you have this welcoming, gentle swell of oak and barrel char.
If you’re into Irish whiskey, American whiskey, or both, I can toadally…see this working for you across so many different occasions for wanting to pour something.
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.
Phil Dwyer is a freelance whisky writer and consultant. With a decade of experience in whisky retail and nearly as long running Whisky Wednesday on YouTube, Phil is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with fellow whisky lovers. His goal is to make whisky accessible and enjoyable, dispelling the jargon and complexity that can sometimes surround the spirit. In addition to his online presence, Phil managed The Whisky Shop Manchester, where he curated an impressive selection of some of the finest drams available.
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