FIRST SIP: Method and Madness Single Grain

Method and Madness is a micro-distillery located within Midleton, the most macro of the Irish distilleries. (Photo courtesy of Method and Madness.) 

Method and Madness isn't the easiest Irish whiskey to find in the U.S., but it's worth the effort.

Building on tradition but not a prisoner to it, this is some good whiskey. Buy it, if you can find it. (Photo courtesy of Method and Madness.) 

Method and Madness is a serious contradiction in the world of Irish whiskey: it's a small operation with just a handful of blenders and distillers that strive to achieve a spirit of innovation in whiskey production. But it's located at the Midleton Distillery in Co. Cork and owned by Irish Distillers, parent company of Jameson, Powers, Redbreast and Midleton Very Rare. This mashup of micro and macro, very old and quite young, traditional and innovative, all make for a fascinating distillery that's putting out some very good whiskeys.

The Method and Madness Single Grain is one of three primary expressions available, the others being a Single Malt and a Single Pot Still (there are also several limited edition varieties). The Single Grain is aged in bourbon barrels, finished in Virgin Spanish Oak casks,  and is quite flavorful--reasonably smooth with a welcome bite of woody citrus. The initial burn of alcohol quickly subsides into a lingering finish of spicy sweetness. We haven't had a chance to try the Single Malt or Single Pot Still expressions yet but are making that a top priority.

ABV: 46%

Retail price: About $70

Method and Madness Single Grain: 

93 POINTS