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Teeling single malt – 46% ABV

Overall rating: 5/5

The key to Teeling’s success lies in their respect for Irish distilling traditions, while experimenting with the mix of grains used in the production process to create new flavours. The company dedicates 25% of their annual capacity to experimentation, and given the three years it takes to secure the label of being a whiskey, experimenting with distillation is a high-risk gamble, especially if you're trying anything radical. Teeling have also developed their own fermentation process, which draws on an array of strains of yeast, all bubbling away in stills named after owner Jack Teeling’s daughters.

The aroma of the whiskey has notes of caramel and chocolate, as well as an earthiness and acidity. The palate is delicate, and cinnamon is very much at the forefront, joined by summer fruits and sharp pepper. The taste of orchard fruits make it an airlily light dram. The finish is lingering and silkily smooth, with notes of summer fruits and honey.

The perfect gift for...

...an Irish whiskey enthusiast who can’t put down their old favourites. It could also broaden your grandparents’ horizons if they can’t see any further than Jameson – this may be a new Irish malt on the block but it boasts a maturity way beyond its years. It can be enjoyed neat or over ice if you want to stretch the drink out and highlight the smoothness over the pepper.

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This review was last updated in November 2019. If you have any questions or suggestions for future reviews, or spot anything that has changed in price or availability, please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk. For information on alcohol guidelines, read our guide to drinking responsibly.

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