SHORT REVIEW: Writers’ Tears Copper Pot Irish Whiskey

Produced by Walsh Whiskey Distillery, which was founded in 1999, in County Carlow, Writers’ Tears Copper Pot is a no age statement (NAS), 80 proof (40% ABV), 3x-distilled Irish whisky aged in charred ex-bourbon American White Oak barrels. It is a blend of single pot still and malted Irish whiskies with a mash bill of 60% malted and 40% un-malted barley. The brand’s name taps into Ireland’s rich literary history through writers including Oscar Wilde, James Joyce, Bram Stoker, W.B. Yeats, and George Bernard Shaw.

This review is based on multiple spaced-out sessions using Stölzle Lausitz Whisky Nosing, Glencairn, and Denver & Liely Bourbon glasses over five months.

COLOR: Marigold

NOSE: Strong apple & vanilla (reminiscent of an apple turnover), pink bubblegum (old style Bazooka), vanilla-citrus (light), honeyed orchard fruits, banana custard, light baking spices (cinnamon & nutmeg).

PALATE: Sweet from start to finish – Ginger & baking spices from the nose that mix almost immediately with creamy sweet malt & sweet orchard fruits, vanilla, some oak/barrel tannins (light), black pepper (background), vanilla-banana custard, citrus (lemon) peel, honeyed-fruity vanilla, & floral notes (background) – Overall profile is floral & fruity. Despite the oak tannins & black pepper notes in the background, the overall flavor profile is quite sweet throughout.

The ginger, while not overpowering, remains on the palate mixing with the fruit, vanilla, & baking spices.

FINISH: Medium-short (5-6 seconds)

MOUTHFEEL: Medium viscosity coating the glass with tears & pearls – Creamy at the start but this fades after a few seconds.

VALUE: Very pleasant Irish whisky for sipping for a budget-friendly price.

ALWAYS ON SHELF/BUY AGAIN? Yes.