Method And Madness’ Latest Irish Whiskey Gets Garryana Oak Finish

Irish Distillers, maker of Method and Madness, just launched the Garryana Oak Edition from its experimental Micro Distillery in Midleton, of Ireland’s County Cork.

A statement from Irish Distillers explains that this new release is a traditional single pot still whiskey finished in Garryana oak casks, which is somewhat of a departure for Irish whiskey.

The Method and Madness brand was created in 2017 and explores new mash bills, distillation techniques, and wood finishes in the world of Irish whiskey.

Irish Distillers, maker of Method and Madness, just launched the Garryana Oak Edition from its experimental Micro Distillery in Midleton, of Ireland’s County Cork. (image via Midleton)

In this Method and Madness Garryana Oak offering, they’ve highlighted the use of the Oregon white oak, which is rare and distinctive for its dense wood properties.

The whiskey itself was triple distilled at the Micro Distillery from a mash bill of malted and unmalted barley, and matured in ex-bourbon American oak casks before being finished in casks made from the virgin Garryana oak from the Pacific Northwest, finishing for an average of about 10 months.

The distiller’s notes explain that the Garryana oak brings a unique richness, complexity, and spiciness to the whiskey, considered to have an elevated phenolic aroma profile and higher tannins, which contribute to a distinctive array of flavors.

The whiskey features aromas of smoked applewood, treacle, and golden raisins, with notes of black pepper, coffee cake, clove spice and malted barley.

“Method and Madness Garryana Oak is an expression aligned with the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of Irish whiskey,” said Finbarr Curran, maturation lead at Midleton Distillery. “The Micro Distillery has always been about experimentation and the use of Garryana oak is just the latest example of our innovative spirit and dedication to producing unique and exceptional whiskeys.”

Mairead Callanan, wood maturation technologist, added that the Garryana oak barrels bring a unique dimension to the traditional single pot still whiskey, offering a distinct flavor profile and a taste of the Pacific Northwest’s terroir.”

Method and Madness Garryana Oak clocks in at 46% ABV and is now available for purchase in Ireland, the UK, Global Travel Retail, and online for the suggested retail price of €95. It will make its U.S. debut in late 2023.

For more information or to find a bottle, check out www.methodandmadnesswhiskey.com.