Kilbeggan Debuts a Single Grain Irish Whiskey

Beam Suntory’s Irish whiskey brand Kilbeggan is said to be the holder of Ireland’s oldest licensed distillery record. In play since 1757, the brand was shuttered during Prohibition like so many other whiskey labels around the world. Residents of the namesake town rallied over time to have it reopened, and it is in that spirit the new Kilbeggan Single Grain Irish Whiskey is debuting.

Kilbeggan Single Grain Irish Whiskey, according to those behind it, is bottled at 86 proof and non-age statement in nature. Consisting of a mash bill that’s 94% corn and 6% malted barley, this whiskey was initially aged in ex-bourbon barrels before being finished in a “marriage of ex-bourbon and various fortified wine casks.” It is being marketed as a cocktail and sipping whiskey.

“The passion and dedication that the citizens of Kilbeggan put into keeping this distillery alive is truly inspirational,” said John Cashman, Beam Suntory Global Brand Ambassador, Irish Whiskey, in a prepared statement. “Kilbeggan Single Grain is born out of this resilience and we are proud to offer a whiskey to be enjoyed by all – whether that’s as a traditional neat dram or in a modern craft cocktail. The folks at Kilbeggan Distilling Co. are happy to share it with you any way you like.”

Plans call for this Irish whiskey to be made available initially in the United States for around $30. You’ll find some official tasting notes below for your consideration. In case you are wondering also how it is something called “single grain” has more than one grain in the mash bill, the term in the Irish industry generally refers to whiskey made in a single location using malted barley and at least one other grain.

• NOSE: Coconut cream, vanilla, jellied fruit and summer red berries
• PALATE: Wafer-like biscuit sweetness, hazelnut and light spice with nice oak tannins drying on the side of the mouth
• FINISH: Crisp and fruity, glazed cherries drying with a lingering spice