Sláinte

Wherever you travel around the world, you're almost guaranteed to hear the word Sláinte - the Irish-Gaelic word for 'good health.'  It's this exact word which become synonymous with the Irish-American fixer, Ray Donovan, played by the enigmatic Liev Schreiber.

With Liev looking towards the future following the conclusion of his hit show, and already  with an appreciation of Irish whiskey - with his Sláinte catchphrase, it was inevitable that Liev would partner with Richard Davies, founder and director of Sláinte Irish Whiskey.

Liev in more than just a celebrity figure-head for the brand.  With his love of Irish whiskey and insatiable work ethic, these two qualities made him the perfect partner for Richard Davies.

Today I'll be reviewing Sláinte Irish Whiskey "The toast of Ireland."  A 100% Irish whiskey blend, distilled and matured in Ireland by master distiller Brian Watts.  Bottled at 40% abv, comprising of the slightly sweeter grain whiskey and drier single malt whiskey, aged in bourbon casks and finished in sherry butts.

Colour: Burnished copper with nice, thin, long legs.

Nose: Initially, I get that sweet grain whiskey influence in what I can only describe as a cross between a buttery croissant and cinnamon roll, which offers a very slight spice note on the back end.

Palate: The notes carry nicely from nosing to the palate, with those lovely baked sweet vanilla, cinnamon and stewed orchard fruit notes.  A hint of oak and a pleasant, creamy mouth-coating; although a little thin, but very tasteful.

Finish:  I find the finish to be short to medium, not overly sweet with a touch of spice, but well balanced, both grain and single malt whiskies coming into their own.

Overall, this was a pleasant sipping whiskey, which I enjoyed neat on a cold New England day.  Given the 40% abv, I generally find I don't need to add water as all the flavors present themselves nicely at the bottling strength.

Sláinte!