FIRST SIP: Kilbeggan Distiller's Cask Single Malt
The Distillery
Kilbeggan was originally established in 1757 in Co. Westmeath, about an hour due west of Dublin, along the River Brosna. After long periods of struggles, including years of closure, its assets were acquired by John Teeling's Cooley Distillery in 1987 and onsite distilling began again in 2007. Kilbeggan and Cooley are now owned by Beam Suntory (the world's third-largest spirits producer). Sister Irish whiskey brands include Connemara, the Tyrconnell, and 2 Gingers.
The Whiskey
Kilbeggan Distiller's Cask is a limited-edition single malt release only available at the Kilbeggan Distillery. It's matured in ex-bourbon casks for 11 years and is bottled at a robust 106 proof. We taste spicy fruit along with a peppery nuttiness, and although it's 53% ABV--and there is definitely some heat in this bottle--it's not overwhelming.
ABV: 53%
Retail price: $30 (200 ml bottle)
The Verdict
Kilbeggan Distiller's Cask Single Malt: 93 POINTS
