Of all of the whisky tasting notes we publish here on BEXSONN, seldom do we post tasting notes from the founding nation of whiskey – though not to say we haven’t posted a few before. Founded in 1887, by one Robert Mitchell, a gentleman of not inconsiderable business acumen, expanded the family bakery and confectionary business into whiskey bonding. The family first commenced retailing the venerable Green Spot whiskey in 1933 at which time one could purchase “John Jameson & Son 10 Year Old Green Seal. There was an insatiable demand for the consistently flavoursome Irish whiskey and the numerous Irish distilleries were at maximum capacity during these early years and what Mitchell & Sons brought to the whiskey market was something rather special. Green Spot is a non-age-statement Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, which is comprised of whiskey that has been aged between 7 – 10 years. Matured in a combination of new bourbon, refill bourbon, as well as sherry casks. However, only a small quantity of Green Spot is bottled each year, for no apparent reason….
On the nose: you’ll be greeted by notes of vanilla, strawberries, almonds, banana and a note I can only liken to pandan leaf. These initial notes are followed by mango, cinnamon, star anise and peppery spices. There is a wonderful and welcomed oily note floating around in there, which is nicely rounded off by notes of a floral nature, lime zest, cherry drops, honey, red apples and coconut. On the palate: those red apples are present, followed by vanilla, marzipan, pineapple and coconut. Notes of cinnamon, aniseed and dark chocolate start to emerge, alongside notes of coffee, candy and lavender. The palate is completed with lime zest, mandarin, with a lovely oily texture. The finish: medium, sweet, smooth, yet bitter with lingering spices, smoke and a zesty tanginess.
The verdict: Green Spot was a dram that I didn’t have any preconceived perceptions about but it perhaps over delivered in every department. The nose is sweet, with flickers of complexity and the palate echoes much of the same depth in flavour, with a finish that is warmly welcomed – delivering a well-balanced and enjoyable dram. With an ABV of 40%, in my opinion, you don’t really need to add any water. However, if you require water then only add a small amount but to experience the plethora of notes on offer, I’d suggest leaving the dram to breathe for approximately 5 – 10 minutes before indulging. I’d also suggest letting the bottle get some oxygen for about the same period too.
Green Spot Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey can be found at any well-stocked whisky shop or online for approximately £36, which I might add is great value for money!
For more information on this Non-age statement Green Spot Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, visit the official Mitchell & Sons website.
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