Two Stacks Fruit Drops Apricot Brandy Cask Finish is a testament to the brand's commitment to innovation within the Irish whiskey landscape. This expression is part of the Fruit Drops series, which explores the influence of fruit brandy cask finishes on traditional Irish whiskey blends.
The whiskey is crafted from a five-part blend:
40% single grain aged in virgin oak casks
40% single grain aged in ex-bourbon casks
8% single pot still aged in ex-Oloroso sherry butts
10% double-distilled malt aged in ex-bourbon casks
2% peated malt aged in ex-bourbon casks
This blend is then finished in apricot brandy casks sourced from California, adding a unique fruit-forward dimension to the whiskey.
Producer History
Established in 2020, Two Stacks is an independent bottler based in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The company focuses on blending and bonding, sourcing spirits from various distilleries across Ireland, including the Great Northern Distillery in Dundalk, County Louth.
Two Stacks aims to revive the tradition of whiskey bonding, a practice once common in Ireland, by selecting and finishing spirits in unique casks. Their approach combines traditional methods with modern innovation, resulting in expressions that appeal to both connoisseurs and new whiskey enthusiasts.
Tasting Notes
- Appearance: Golden amber with a slight haze, indicating its non-chill-filtered nature.
- Aroma: Inviting notes of juicy apricot, green apple, vanilla, and honey, reminiscent of an apricot Danish pastry.
- Flavour: Layers of marzipan, toasted almond, and gentle spice, complemented by the sweetness of stone fruits and a touch of citrus zest.
- Mouthfeel: Silky and smooth, with a medium body that carries the flavours through to a lingering finish.
Food Pairings
The fruit-forward profile of this whiskey makes it an excellent companion to a variety of dishes. Pair it with soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert to complement its creamy texture and fruity notes.
For a savoury option, consider serving it alongside roasted pork with an apricot glaze, where the whiskey's sweetness can enhance the dish's flavours. Desserts such as almond tart or peach cobbler also pair well, echoing the whiskey's nutty and fruity characteristics.
Serving and Cocktail Suggestions
While this whiskey is delightful neat or with a splash of water, it also shines in cocktails. Try it in a Whiskey Sour, where its apricot notes add a unique twist to the classic recipe. Alternatively, use it in an Old Fashioned, substituting traditional bitters with orange bitters to accentuate its citrus elements.
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