St. Patricks Day in Style ☘️

As St. Patrick's Day approaches this month, it's the perfect time to celebrate all things Irish—including the rich world of Irish whiskey. Ireland's whiskies are known for their smoothness, triple distillation heritage, and often approachable yet layered profiles. Today, I'm diving into tasting notes for three standout Irish whiskies that capture different facets of the Emerald Isle's spirit: the bold and stout-friendly Harp of Darkness Black Irish Whiskey, the sherry-finished elegance of Copeland Merchants' Quay Palo Cortado Finish, and the mature, refined Saints & Sinners & Rebels & Rogues 18 Year Old. Whether you're raising a glass in a pub or sipping at home, these three offer something special for the occasion.

Harp of Darkness Black Irish Whiskey

This "black" Irish whiskey (from Master of Malt's line-up) was literally crafted with one thing in mind: pairing beautifully with a pint of Guinness. The makers proudly declare their love for the iconic stout, and they've engineered this dram to complement its creamy, roasty, malty depths. At around 41% ABV, it's dark in colour and bold in character—think of it as the whiskey equivalent of that perfect dark pint. So I drank mine with a Pint of Guinness just to see if it really did go well...

Nose: Creamy malt

Palate: Rich, Dark, Malty, bit like chewing a coffee bean, thick and goes down well.

Finish: Maltiness lingers, slight bitterness but in a pleasing way.

And that was just the Guinness. Now for the Harp of Darkness.

Nose: Opens with treacle toffee, boozy chocolate truffles, brandy snaps, and polished oak. There's a malty sweetness with hints of dark roast coffee emerging as it breathes.

Palate: Rich and full—dark malt leads, joined by chocolate-drizzled flapjack, salted caramel, molasses, and a touch of ginger snap biscuits. It has an earthy, roasty undertone that mirrors Guinness's coffee-like roasted barley notes, making the two feel like natural companions.

Finish: Lingers with crème caramel, subtle spice, and a gentle warmth that invites another sip alongside your stout.

It actually does go well with the Guinness, pairs really nicely and if that is the aim, then it was a success. Just to drink on its own its almost a bit too much like a liqueur - the dangerous side is it doesn't taste like the strength of a spirit which could make for a very good St. Patricks Day having one of these with every pint of Guinness. 82/100

Copeland Merchants' Quay Palo Cortado Finish

From Northern Ireland's coastal Copeland Distillery, this blended Irish whiskey gets a luxurious finish in rare Palo Cortado sherry casks (a style that's nutty, dry, and complex between amontillado and oloroso). The result is a sophisticated, fruit-forward dram that's still unmistakably Irish in its smoothness.

Nose: Inviting aromas of dried citrus peel, rich fruitcake, vanilla, toasted nuts, and warm oak. There's a subtle balsamic whisper adding intrigue.

Palate: Warm and slightly dry, with layers of caramel, sweet orange marmalade, dried fruits (think raisins and figs), honey, and mandarin. Baking spices and a touch of balsamic vinegar bring depth without overwhelming the gentle Irish grain and malt base.

Finish: Medium-length, with lingering citrus zest, nuts, and a refined dryness that cleanses the palate beautifully.

This one's ideal for those who want a more elegant, sherry-influenced Irish whiskey—perfect for contemplative St. Patrick's Day sipping or as an after-dinner treat. 87/100

Saints & Sinners & Rebels & Rogues 18 Year Old

Bottled by Atom Brands, this ultra-premium blended Irish whiskey (often a secret stock from top distilleries) spends 21 years maturing, delivering exceptional depth and maturity at a reasonable proof (around 40-46% ABV depending on batch). It's a celebration of Ireland's blending tradition—smooth, complex, and rewarding.

Nose: Ripe orchard fruits (apple, pear) dusted with cinnamon, golden honey, vanilla, dried fruits, and subtle sweet spices. There's a touch of old leather and gentle oak influence.

Palate: Smooth and full-bodied, with juicy sultanas, orange peel, apricot jam, warming gingerbread, dark chocolate, and hints of red berries. The long maturation adds elegance—think seasoned oak, light vanilla, and caramel without any harsh edges.

Finish: Dry, elegant, and lingering, tapering off with sweet spice, subtle fruit, and a refined oak dryness.

This aged beauty is for savouring slowly. It's a luxurious way to toast St. Patrick's Day, honouring the rebels and rogues of Irish history with a whiskey that's anything but ordinary. 88/100

These three whiskies showcase the diversity of modern Irish whiskey: from pub-friendly boldness to sherry sophistication and aged refinement. Raise a glass (or two) this St. Patrick's Day—whether with a pint of Guinness in hand or on its own. Erin go Bragh! 🍀🥃

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• Harp of Darkness
• Saints& Sinners& Rebels& Rogues.
• Copeland Merchant's Quay Palo Cortado