I’ve decided to explore the world of whiskey and try to become a proper connoisseur. Each month, I’ll be tasting three drams and sharing my thoughts on this blog. It’s all part of a tasting journey I started with a monthly subscription from www.threedrams.com. I’m not affiliated with them in any way—I just think it’s a great way to explore different styles of Irish whiskey.
March 2025 – Tasting Kit
Dram 1: Midleton Very Rare 2024 Vintage
ABV: 40%
The 2024 release of Midleton Very Rare continues its legacy as one of Ireland’s most sought-after vintage blends. It’s a combination of single pot still and single grain whiskeys, aged between 13 and 35 years, all matured in lightly charred first-fill ex-bourbon American oak barrels.
My Tasting Impressions:
I found the nose floral and inviting, with a soft, delicate aroma that set the tone beautifully. On the palate, it delivered toffee apple and caramel, with a smooth, easy-drinking mouthfeel. The amber colour glowed in the glass, adding to the sense of quiet luxury.
Dram 2: McConnell’s Sherry Cask Finish
ABV: 46%
Finished in Oloroso sherry casks, this 5-year-old blend delivers a bold and rich flavour profile.
My Tasting Impressions:
A woody smell on the nose, followed by fig and fruit cake flavours on the palate. It was sweet and spicy, and I really liked this one—it stood out enough that I ended up buying a bottle after visiting the distillery!
Dram 3: Two Stacks Fruit Drops – Apple Brandy Cask
ABV: 50%
A punchy and experimental whiskey finished in apple brandy casks.
My Tasting Impressions:
The nose was sweet, with vanilla and apple, but the taste leaned spicy, like apple drops. The aftertaste lingered quite a bit. This one wasn’t my favourite—just a bit too sharp for my palate.
Summary
This was a great tasting kit with three very different expressions. I enjoyed comparing them and discovering what suits my palate best. For me, the order of preference was clear:
1 – McConnell’s Sherry Cask
2 – Midleton Very Rare
3 – Two Stacks Apple Brandy Cask
Becoming a Toastmaster 