Kinahan’s Debuts World’s First Hybrid Cask Single Malt Irish Whiskey

Kinahan’s is a historic Irish whiskey label said to have its origins in Dublin in 1779. Among its offerings in this day and age are a range of whiskeys from its Kasc Project series, a series of bottlings aged in a hybrid cask made from five types of wood. The latest of these has now been announced.

The new Kinahan The Kasc Project [M], according to those behind it, is the world’s first “hybrid cask single malt Irish whiskey.” It varies from other releases in this series somewhat by its whiskey style. The cask it is aged in is made from a mix of Portuguese oak, American oak, French oak, Hungarian oak and chestnut. It is believed by the brand the whiskey is ultimately an expression “of the rich and varied ecosystems in which these trees flourish, drawing their robust characters from the unique origins of the different wood varieties.”

“I guess, if you are whiskey traditionalist, look away,” said Zak Oganian, managing director of Kinahan’s Irish Whiskey, in a prepared statement. “The Kasc Project whiskeys are all about breaking new ground and setting the standard for evolution of richer and bolder whiskey flavours. Time is the most valuable thing we can invest.

“For over 240 years now generations of custodians behind the historic Kinahan’s brand chose to invest time into innovation. We simply do the same, for the next generation of whiskey lovers.”

Bottled at 45% ABV without chill filtration or artificial coloring, The Kasc Project [M] is available to purchase in the United Kingdom at this time. No price was mentioned, and you’ll find official tasting notes below.

• Nose: Freshly cut mango and pineapple, poached spiced pear, molasses and a hint of vanilla oak.
• Palate: Charred apricot, caramelised tropical fruits, sweet sun-dried Malvasia grapes, espresso and burnt sugar.
• Finish: Madeira cake, more pineapple and toasted cereal, with pleasant creamy tannins.