Green Spot | Whiskey Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Ireland, specifically from the Midleton Distillery located in Cork, in the southern part of Ireland.
Type: Irish Single Pot Still Whiskey.
Distillation and Maturation Process: The whiskey is a blend of malt whiskey and whiskey from unmalted grains, distilled in pot stills. It is matured in 50% first-fill bourbon casks and 50% second-fill bourbon casks, marking a departure from its historical maturation in fortified wine casks.
Age Statement: Not specified in the transcript.
Color and Bottle Design: The whiskey's color is not described, but the packaging features a tube with an illustration of an old cask marked with a green spot, reflecting the whiskey's name and historical color-coding system.

Balance of Flavors: The whiskey presents a very fruity profile with a balance of maltiness. There is a notable grain influence and an oily texture, followed by a pot still character and a significant spiciness.
Unique Characteristics: It is described as having a very long aftertaste with definitive oakiness that becomes drier over time, and a distinct spiciness. The flavor profile is rich in orchard fruits, tangerines, and pineapple, making it exceptionally fruity.
Comparison: This whiskey is distinguished from typical blended Irish whiskeys and is representative of the new single pot still whiskeys.

Historical Anecdotes: The Green Spot brand has a rich history, originating from a family business in Dublin that started in 1805, initially focusing on fortified wines before venturing into whiskey. The whiskey's name comes from the color-coding system used on the casks for aging, with the green spot denoting the best whiskies.
Distillery Evolution: The narrative also touches on the broader history of Dublin's distilleries, their closure by the mid-1960s, and the consolidation of operations in Cork with the establishment of the New Midleton Distillery. It mentions the recent resurgence of distilleries in Dublin.

The Green Spot whiskey embodies the tradition and evolution of Irish whiskey-making, from its origins in a Dublin family business to its current production in the renowned Midleton Distillery in Cork. Its story reflects the broader shifts in the Irish whiskey industry and Dublin's historical significance as a distilling hub.

Horst Luening describes the whiskey as "massive" and "very, very interesting," highlighting its departure from typical blended Irish whiskeys and its embodiment of the characteristics of new single pot still whiskeys.

Green Spot is an Irish Single Pot Still Whiskey from Midleton Distillery in Cork, Ireland.
It has a unique maturation process in bourbon casks, with no fortified wine cask influence.
The whiskey is known for its exceptionally fruity flavor profile, with a long aftertaste and distinct spiciness.
It has a rich history tied to Dublin's whiskey tradition and the evolution of the Irish whiskey industry.
Horst Luening praises its distinctiveness and quality, marking it as a standout among new single pot still whiskeys.

For Whiskey Enthusiasts: Those with a deep appreciation for the history and evolution of whiskey-making will find Green Spot's rich backstory and traditional production methods appealing.
For Fruit-Flavored Whiskey Lovers: Individuals who enjoy a fruity flavor profile in their whiskey will be particularly drawn to Green Spot's orchard fruit and citrus notes.
For Collectors: The historical significance and unique characteristics of Green Spot make it a worthy addition to any whiskey collector's assortment.
For New Whiskey Drinkers: Its balanced flavor profile and the absence of overwhelming oakiness make Green Spot an accessible choice for those new to whiskey.