The Quiet Man - Irish Whiskey


On the evening of 7th October 2020 I took part in yet another of the continually excellent Tweet Tastings. These tastings have been great during lock-down. I have been able to socially interact with and learn from fellow tasters thanks to these evenings. Tonight is no different and we are sampling three offerings from 'The Quiet Man'.

Based in county Derry, Northern Ireland, founder Ciaran Mulgrew named the whiskey 'The Quiet Man', or as we say back home 'An Fear Ciuin' after his father, John. He worked as a barman for fifty years in the pubs of Belfast and stayed true to the unwritten rule of barmen, to tell no tales. I'm sure he must have heard plenty of interesting stories over that half a century.

First up for tasting is The Quiet Man Superior Blend.


The Quiet Man Superior Blend

The superior blend (40% ABV -) is 20% Irish malt and 80% grain whiskey. They have been matured in ex-bourbon barrels. This is a strikingly beautiful coloured dram.

Nose
Banana, apple and raisins.

Taste
Fruit cake, not sure if I get a hint of marzipan in there too. Cream soda was also mentioned by another taster which I completely agreed.

Finish
The finish is both long and sweet with a caramel and peppered finish.

The Quiet Man 8 year Old


I found the 8 a very refreshing tipple. It's a remarkably smooth whiskey. Even though it is 40% ABV as was the superior blend, this one seems broader tasting. 

Nose
Vanilla pods and Sweet flowered distillates.

Taste
Syrup of pear and apples. The gentle sweetness evokes memories of Mc. Cowan's Highland Toffee.

Finish
New York Cheesecake and stewed apples with a subtle dusting of ginger.

The Quiet Man 12 year Old


This number is a triple distilled Irish single malt, matured solely in bourbon casks. It has an Alcohol by Volume of 46%

Nose
Quite a bit more reserved than the 8. There's honey here and a gentle whiff of banana.

Taste
Citrus fruits perhaps lemon. A slight burn at the back of the mouth on this one. Vanilla and demerara sugar.

Finish
A prominent boldness of spices are immediately carried to the fore. This soon dwindles to reveal timbered warmth that is long lasting, sweet and leaves you yearning for more.

Conclusion

Overall, I was very impressed with all three whiskies I sampled. They are competitively priced also which means I will certainly be re-visiting these expressions in the near future.

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