The Whisky Mercenary An Irish Distillery 17 Years Old 51.6% 2002

Professional reviews

Serge Valentin (87)

Colour: white wine. Nose: to claim that this is similar would be an understatement. This one's just a tad grassier and more on leaves and stems, but that could clearly be because of the higher ABV. A little more kirshwasser too, but other than that, we're on those mangos and melons. And perhaps a drop of pear juice. With water: same herbs, oils and fruits, very lovely. Whiffs of wool, new sweater… Or new Irish cap, Peaky Blinders-style? Mouth (neat): a thick, hotter liqueur. Sugarcane syrup, tangerine liqueur, pear liqueur… All that at cask strength. With water: same as the DreamCatcher when at the same strength, more or less. Perhaps is this one a tad grassier, and a notch less liqueury? A hint of lovage in the back or the back of background. Finish: long and sweet, liqueury indeed. Comments: you could down 5 litres of each and keep wondering about those tiny differences here and there. No good move.

BOW (88)

The Whisky Mercenary's Masterpiece: Unveiling the Enigmatic Irish Distillery 17 Years Old

The world of independent bottlers is often a realm of mystery and discovery, and The Whisky Mercenary's Irish Distillery 17 Years Old is a prime example of the treasures waiting to be unearthed. Distilled in 2002 at the undisclosed Cooley distillery and bottled in 2020, this expression showcases the artistry of The Whisky Mercenary in capturing the essence of a well-aged Irish spirit.

A Hidden Gem Revealed:

The veil of secrecy surrounding the origin of this 17-year-old Irish whiskey only adds to its allure. Distilled at the renowned Cooley distillery—an undisclosed gem that contributes to the mystique of the dram—this expression is a testament to the unique character and craftsmanship of Irish whiskey.

Tasting Notes:

The journey into The Whisky Mercenary's Irish Distillery 17 Years Old begins with an olfactory experience that transcends expectations. A delicate and immensely fruity aroma envelops the senses, evoking a delightful combination of banana, kiwi, goldberry, litchi, mocha, and soft nougat. The initial encounter with the nose is nothing short of an "OMG-moment," setting the stage for a remarkable tasting experience.

The palate unfolds with an exquisite texture—oily and tooth-coating. The pronounced fruitiness continues its dance on the taste buds, with citrus and kiwi taking center stage. However, the whiskey reveals its feisty side with lively notes of pepper, licorice, and a touch of eucalyptus, imparting a fresh and invigorating lift to the overall profile. The complexity of flavors intertwines seamlessly, showcasing the depth that comes with 17 years of maturation.

The grand finale of this whiskey journey is a long, sweet, delicately spicy, and thoroughly satisfying finish. The flavors linger, leaving an indelible mark on the palate—a testament to the careful curation and impeccable aging process that The Whisky Mercenary has applied to this distinguished bottling.

Conclusion:

The Whisky Mercenary's Irish Distillery 17 Years Old stands as a masterpiece of independent bottling, offering enthusiasts a glimpse into the magic of a Cooley-distilled whiskey at its peak maturity. The mystery surrounding the origin adds an extra layer of excitement to the experience, making each sip a journey into the heart of Irish whiskey craftsmanship.

For those who relish in the delight of unexpected discoveries and appreciate the nuances of a well-aged spirit, The Whisky Mercenary's offering is a rare and enchanting find. The 17-year journey captured within this bottle is a testament to the passion and dedication of both the undisclosed Cooley distillery and The Whisky Mercenary—an ode to the rich tapestry of flavors that make Irish whiskey a cherished and celebrated tradition.