Thanks to all who participated in the poll! Here we showcase some affordable Irish Whiskey options for the specific purpose of mixing. You certainly don't need a pricey spirit to make a good drink! Hope you enjoy the video, and let me know if you like this sipping/tasting format. (Also thanks for your patience on the upload issues! Everything should be good now 👍). Sláinte, everyone! 🥃 🇮🇪
Could you do one of these tasting videos with Bourbons? Maybe one about the best bourbons for an Old Fashioned? Currently crazy about Makers Mark, MM 46, Cask Strength etc. Would love to know your suggestions.
Tell az that she should try Pepcid or Zantac which are h2 blockers as in histamine blocker (similar to Benadryl) and it can help with asian redness. It doesn’t help everyone but it may help. Plus prevent ulcers 😂
I’ve said this before, but I really love your guys’ laid back style! This felt like hanging out with you two and I smiled the whole time. This inspires me to plan to do a tasting with my (fully vaccinated) friends soon! Cheers!
I’d highly recommend a trip to the slane distillery for those who are visiting Ireland. An hour outside Dublin and on the site of a lovely castle and the grounds of one of Ireland’s biggest summer music festivals. Slane is a lovely town too.
We're an Irish brand so it's great to see you repping our popular blends! The reason potstill is named as such is kind of murky but mostly to do with distinguishing our whiskey from scotch malts after the English put heavy taxes on Malted barley and we discovered that the blend of Malted and Unmalted made a deliciously silky, oily and spicey whiskey! It also never touches a column still, staying faithful to the copper! Interestingly Slane gets a bad rep over here but the bottling is lovely and the distillery is great craic to visit!
Thank you for clarifying the potstill classification! That's so interesting about Slane - I did enjoy it. I wish I could visit all of these distilleries!
@@AndersErickson Humble brag but we have connects with the Tully and Jameson distilleries, plus our set/school is right next to the Old Jameson distillery, if you decide to visit Ireland post-pandemic let us know and we'll hook you up! I'm sure they'd love the publicity also
I think Slane might have significant batch variation. Bought a bottle a year or two ago and my mind was blown by the depth of flavour from such an inexpensive blend, but my next bottle after that just tasted very flat and one dimensional. Like the same song being played by a different band.
I’m not Asian at all, but I turn VERY red and hot when I drink…I appreciate you schooling us all on the flush! Never pressure anyone to drink more than they want (or at all). Loved this taste test!
Can we just talk about the great production quality for a sec? The sound design, editing, great mic quality (no idea if concealed lavalier or a shotgun mic), properly divided sections in the timeline, great video description. And all this seamless hard work and attention to detail, on top of just great content! It was very confusing when I said to myself "why haven't I seen their videos before?" and was very surprised to see you only have close to 4k subs... It is a crime not to sub to this channel. Thank you for your hard work! Keep up the passion and keep flashing those wonderful smiles
YES! Yes, yes, yes, as well as .... yes. I am a show producer & post-productionist since the 70's, for brands I am not allowed to legally name, and I can assure you that YOUR production values and results could stand up against anything we produce in our (no, I will not tell you) studios. KUDOS! And more Az, please. Shout outs to her as Best Crew. Thank you.
Great video! I'm surprised no Bushmills! I really enjoy the Black as an everyday sipper which is very affordable - better than most low-end Scotch. White and Red are good if Black isn't available. For those higher-end Irish, I agree, Redbreast is easily an excellent one and Spot is equally as good! Both better than many Scottish or Japanese! I assume there are some better than Redbreast or Spot, so I would love to see a higher-end version of this that showcases their qualities either neat or on-the-rocks! Cheers!
I think it'd be fun to do this again with some higher-end bottles! In our poll, the Bushmills Black was on there, but didn't get picked - still want to give it a shot though. Cheers to you, Andrew!
@@AndersErickson Highly recommended Bushmills - oldest distillery in Ireland, great whiskeys and great distillery tour. And whiskey fact of the day... all Irish whiskey is triple distilled, hence smoother than Scotch by a mile all around. Slainte!
Where I am, the Powers Gold Label and Bushmills Black Bush are only 50 cents apart in price. I love them both with a slight preference at the moment for Powers. Would have loved to have seen the Black Bush in this though.
This video episode was so helpful. Irish Whiskey is an area I know next to nothing about! I learned a lot and I have some ideas I want to try out for St. Patrick's Day!! :-) P.S. I also love pretty bottles - well designed!! Oh! I always have one more thing to say!! - it's excellent that you mentioned the issue of intolerance for alcohol, in some Asian individuals. I am actually shocked how few people know about this. I did a research paper, in grad school, in this area and it's a very important issue in medicine. It's good for people to know, more should, and I am glad you left this in the video!!
@@christinecamley Thanks, Christine! So glad you enjoyed it! It was a fun one for us too. And how cool is it that you did a paper on this topic? I also find it surprising that it’s not more commonly known (I agree, it should be!). Cheers to you, and enjoy your weekend!
Man, you two really work SO well onscreen. I made my wife watch this with me first thing and she found it very enjoyable. You should do more in that format and together.
Anders and Azusa this was amazing! It such a great episode with a lot of fun facts. Since I can't get Clontarf, Powers, and Slane, it was interesting to see the review of these three whiskeys. I enjoyed your episode a lot! Slàinte
I'm just going to say 3 things: 1. I recently found your channel and it's quickly become one of my favorites. I am working my way through all your past videos and they are always informative & entertaining. Keep up the great work! 2. I, like a few others, was surprised that Bushmills was not included. 3. Az needs to be in every video!
Im new to the channel, but i really like the episodes where Azusa accompanies you. The two of you have really good on screen chemistry and provide a fun and approachable experience.
So, 1st, you two need to do more vids together, chemistry is great, and Anders, im sorry, but she improves the humor haha 2nd, when you were describing the Powers, it could have been a Jamacian Rum description! I 100% need to try this, thank you both!
Azusa, you are 💯 correct. Straight whiskey is hard to pull out all the flavors in the profile. (And not just for beginners.) Try adding a few drops of water to the tipple. That really opens up all the flavors, as does warming it with your palm in a glencairn glass, like you do with cognac.
I used to be a Tullamore Dew dude through and through. But I discovered Slane during the pandemic and it is my go -to: neat, rocks, base cocktail spirit. Smooth and easy forward, nice evolution .
On the point of Jameson's - I've found it to be a good mixing whiskey for people who say they don't like whiskey but are willing to try if I make them a cocktail, and results have always been positive - thus making it a good gateway whiskey to convince someone that even exclusive gin drinkers and sweet-palette peoples can like whiskey cocktails. Have not noticed Powers over here in Latvia so far, but if I see it, will definitely give it a try.
It may be because I have enjoyed many over the decades at the Buena Vista Cafe in San Francisco that I prefer Tullamore Dew for my Irish Coffee. It is their preferred whiskey. For my Irish Coffee at home I have tired Jameson’s, even Markers Mark in desperation, but Tullamore Dew and coffee are a pleasurable combination in this drink. Getting the cream to properly float, however, is a work in progress.
Thanks to this video, I bought my first bottle of Power's this week for my latest Shaker and Spoon box! I tasted a little neat before mixing with it, and I could pick out the richness and complexity compared to my usual Jameson. It disappeared a bit into the first drink in the box (turmeric and ginger can do that), but I'm excited to see where I can take it next! Sláinte, all you saints and sinners! 🌹🥃
I pretty much always have a bottle of Powers on my desk. Its been the main whiskey for me for years. Love your videos, can't believe I am just now seeing this.
For Az... AND Anders!, to help with tasting whiskeys or other spirits... use a different glass. That snifter style glass you use in this video traps the fumes which "burns your nose hairs!" Which of course is bad but also the fact that, smell and taste are linked. So if you overpower one of those senses, you hamper the other. A basic straight sided rocks glass is better since it doesn't trap fumes. For me, the ideal glass is from Riedel (not sponsored or affiliated) -- it's straight sided and flared at the top so that glass not only doesn't trap fumes, it deposits liquids closer to the tip of your tongue where there's a higher concentration of taste buds. As an experiment (I've done this), pour the same whiskey into all three glasses and do a tasting. People (including myself) almost always pick the Riedel glass. Love the channel! Cheers and happy holidays!
Not to worry Oz, I’m really bad at it too but your doing great! Good to have a patient instructor. I love his descriptions - I sense no ego and Anders has good energy- you guys are a good match! Enjoy ❤️🌸😘 love the videos - I make a lot of Anders cocktails 🍹
Anders, love the channel. Thanks for being Yoda on my cocktail journey! My favorite Irish Whiskey is the Sexton. Probably my favorite whiskey period. Also, very affordable. I believe the last bottle I bought was $25- in NV.
It's been since you released this before re-watching it. Aside from perfectly fitting my want to explore more Irish whiskey, I also like the format when you both engage in a tasting of new stuff. It's a good help to understand what those that I expect to share the whiskey with may experience. I know it is horrific sounding, but some otherwise lovely ppl are simply not into cocktails but do appreciate tastings.
I think you got it right, Anders. Powers is my goto Irish Whiskey, peefect for drinks, irish coffee, sipping. But as you said in the beginning, Redbreast is soo awesome.
During our 10 days in Ireland in 2022, we were introduced to Power Gold Label. It was my go to every evening. Where ever i ordered it it seemed to get the barkeep's nod of approval. Brought a bottle home along with Jameson Triple Triple Triple.. .
Last year someone gave me a sample bottle of Jameson Orange. Move over Baileys, but Jameson Orange made the best tasting Irish coffee with a touch of heavy cream. 😋 I just got a bottle of Tullamore Dew, can't wait to try.
Green Spot is my go to for sipping. I just wish I could source it locally since I have to drive a couple of hours to get it. The main drawback to living in West Texas.
Jameson ist always my go to! Love it in a cocktail, love it straight Definitely can recommend the Jameson stout edition. It's has this beautiful scent and taste of coffee and dark chocolate and I love it just straight without anything
Azusa, I too feel my palate doesn't identify specific flavors as much as balance and sensorial notes. However, one tip to help amplify flavors while tasting is to slightly open your mouth and inhale simultaneously through your nose and mouth after sipping, allowing the spirit aroma/vapor to mix in your entire sinuses a bit. Your taste and olfactory are deeply tied and that can help boost flavors. Works great with all beverages; beer-wine-spirits. I apologize in advance if you already know this trick. Cheers 🍻!
A couple more delicious go tos for me Tyrconnel and Kinahan's. They're both delicious and affordable. Can't recommend them enough. Great content though! Love the chemistry and having the more "lay" person there.
Irish is my go-to beverage. Tullamore Dew is my favorite for Irish Coffee. I get green sweet meadow grass with Jameson. Before I found Redbreast 12 the Powers was my favorite sipping whiskey. Slane was underwhelming. Bushmills Black Bush is an economical alternative to Redbreast 12. If I’m treating myself I go to the Redbreast 12 Cask Strength. An excellent Irish that’s not well known is a small batch blended whiskey, Barr an Uisce, from County Wicklow
i like the bottle design of the Tullamore Dew the most of all the lineup and Powers the least... call me old fashioned. You guys didn't consider the Bushmills for this exercise? I believe Powers is what they swear by for their cocktails at the Dead Rabbit. Keep up the great content guys!
Thanks, Yong! Bushmills was considered - we listed it on the community poll (along with Kilbeggan), but the others received more votes. I was happy with this lineup though!
If you enjoyed the oloroso sherry cask and want something in the same price range as the Readbreast I strongly recommend Greenspot. It spends 75% of it's aging process in used bourbon casks and 25% finishing in sherry. Tastes like green apples and butter cookies, and it's delightful.
Hey guys! You weren't wrong on the note. A F# = Gb (flat), so bravo, Azusa! BTW, Azusa, I completely agree. Ireland is simply breathtaking. I traveled there in the early Spring of 2010 along the north west coast in and around Dublin. The countryside is amazing and Dublin was a joy to discover.
Just rewatching a lot of oldies but goodies 😉 lately and I will add, I am Irish, French, Dutch and German and I too turn red when I drink. My ears, cheeks and neck get red and warm 😊 My husband gives me such a good/hard time about it.
You did great with the notes :-) There's no good or bad actually, It's totally based on your own memories and smell library in what you recognise or associate with a smell/taste. I missed Bushmills in the line-up though. Also a very nice Irish one. I totally agree about the Redbreast 12 (15 is my favourite, but expensive), It's excellent! Just like Yellow spot by the way, give that one a shot too :-) If you like bold flavours, going for a blend Isn't the best way to go since It's blended to create a smooth experience. That said, I understand the price reasoning. I think you'd love Glendronach, and the 12 yo is not that pricey, but I've no idea about the pricing in the states. It has those deep sherry notes that would work very well in (sherry based) cocktails (I assume, still a cocktail newbie). And of course some Islay whisky like Laphroaig 10 or Quarter cask, Ardbeg 10, Caol Ila 12 etc would work very well as bold smokiness in cocktails. There are also some cheaper no-age-statement options like Laphroaig Select which I'm sure would work great in cocktails too, being a more bold pronounced flavour profile and only marginally more expensive as one of those blends. Just my 2 cents. Ow ... and next time maybe try a blind tasting ... you'll be surprised how different the outcome will be :-) Love your energy and videos, keep it up :-D
As a single note, F sharp is G flat. So you're partially correct. It's when they are incorporated in scales that the distinction is made. Mostly. Music is weird.
I was taught early on to first smell the whiskey from a distance, because the rising alcohol kind of masks the subtle flavors in a distilled product. You can only taste five things, but you can pick up many flavors from smelling. The tasting part, I would recommend putting a few drops of water in your whiskey, to bring out more of the flavors.
This may not be read since I'm responding a year after the video, but.... I'm Irish and I found this video fascinating. The average household doesn't make cocktails very often, so I can't say which whiskey is best for mixing. However... I have always said that it's Jameson or Tullamore Dew for drinking (either neat, or with water or soda water) and Powers for Hot Whiskey and Irish Coffee.
That Lustau edition is so good! I hope you get it soon. The standard 12 year is definitely a favorite of mine. Thanks for the comment, Rob - especially after I had to scrap the first video!
I have only ever had the Red Breast Lustau, once, and sipping it, was amazing! In Vancouver it's about $100.00 a bottle, but it's usually readily available in stock.
You two are amazing, thanks for helping me on my cocktail journey. My alcohol journey started with whiskey, and i would say I'm relatively knowledgeable about the topic. That being said i certainly learned quite a bit in this video. Love you both!
The banana and stone fruit flavors are likely from the yeast and if you slurp, mixing more air with what you are drinking, you will be able to pick up the more subtle flavors. Coffee tasters do this and you might be amazed at what a difference it makes.
Great videos that are informative (especially for someone new to mixing drinks), interesting & fun to watch! Keep them up; appreciate all the suggestions & categories (e.g., holiday cocktails, hot drinks, etc.).
@@mbrooks0711 I know i am a follower just didnt know whether citing the name of another channel was bad form or not. I am not really knowing the unwritten UA-cam rules lol...
Would love some more videos like this to learn about the different varieties of alcohol to help understand what holds up best in certain drinks or straight
I just discovered this video in your channel (been watching you for a while and appreciate all your insights and recipes). I cannot get Clontarf in Ohio - apparently its being discontinued statewide. But, I think two years later you might consider an update to this video with some other 40% ABV now available like Paddy's (every bar I've been to in Ireland has Paddy's), and a new entrant is Proper 12. My wife and I have been chasing the Irish Coffee made at the Red Fox pub on the entry to the ring of Kerry. Proper 12 is the whiskey for it 🙂 We've been to Ireland 4 times and are going in April 2024 with my band FinTan. We keep Jameson and Tullamore Dew around all the time (the TD Cider Cask is a nicer smoother version of the regular TD). Also, Bushmills from Northern Ireland is another easy to find whiskey. We built and Irish Pub in our basement and we've made many of the cocktails you've done on your channel. Thanks for making cocktails accessible to everyone (especially hobby folks like us). Great pick using Powers. Thanks so much! Last note - if you like Olorosso Sherry casked whiskey - see if you can find the Blair-Athol age in Olorosso Sherry cast - a bit pricey but sublime. We discovered Edradour and Blair-Athol when we visited Pitlochry Scotland - both are so amazing.
I have heard that Powers is very smooth, I've never tried it but will the next time! The new bottle, by the way resembles a shaker! Also, @16:00- 03, AZ lips looked blue, maybe it was my phone- who knows but hope all is well...
Thanks for the new to me information on Irish Whiskeys, I feel like I can speak more intelligently about them now while working at Binny’s. This is a great retirement job for me, and I recommend your channel to all of the budding mixologist that come to my store in Downers Grove. Great Videos
Of the Clontarf, Powers, and Slane, it seems like the only one of the three that I can purchase here in Washington is the Slane, and I have never heard of it! I'll have to give it a shot!
I agree with your flavor identification on Tullamore DEW 💯 & loved hearing you say banana for a couple. If you haven't tried Green Spot, I highly recommend (for sipping, not mixing). I find it has lovely banana & clove notes.
Not sure if this has been said but here in Merica Jameson is the Irish in everyone’s home but in Ireland it’s Powers. Powers is what I keep in my cabinet all the time too. I love the Powers 3 swallow as well. It’s worth checking out.
You're not alone Az....I have a difficult time detecting different flavours from a lot of liquors. I wish I were able to do it or knew how to do it but I just don't :(
@@azusainaba258 I just feel dumb as an Absinthe lover, when people say "Hmm, I detect Angelica in there, or Veronica, or Hysspop. I can taste the 'holy trinity' fennel,wormwood and green anise. Beyond that, I just like the taste but wish I could give better reviews and name flavours I taste
It's not really important. You taste with your nose, not with your mouth really. If you want to learn, try smelling everything that you use/do. No matter If It's food (dried or fresh), flowers, or just mechanical parts or rubbers. It doesn't matter. And think about what you're smelling. What happens Is that It's stored in your "smell library", which is what your brain will use to identify the smells (flavours). If you say that you recognise paint oil and somebody else says car tire, It's simply because you've had different experiences that were related to that smell. Also, don't be afraid. If random words pop-up, use that. I.e. "a wet elephant in a jungle river". It's fun and actually Is related to some sort of experience or memory you've had. And actually, It says something about what taste/smell you're experiencing. It's what your brain went to first. If you smell something and It brings you back to a memory of a beach on a summer holiday, please share. It's even more valuable together with friends than a random fruit or flower (s)he identifies.
Az!! Don't be afraid/ashamed to add water! Like... lots of it!! Professional whisk(e)y blenders often proof down into the 20-30%abv range to pick out flavors and flaws. (This practice also more accurately depicts how the whiskey will behave once mixed and diluted in a cocktail.)
Green spot and sexton are two I would recommend! I've seen bushmills in the comments - while I don't like it I think you should try it or any of the variants...to me it tastes way more like a scotch than an Irish whiskey
Green Spot is my absolute favorite sipping whiskey. I'm just sad that I have to drive 2 hours to get it for $60 per bottle. Locally, it's $120 per bottle. Living in West Texas has some definite positives and negatives.
When I think of Irish Whiskey, I don’t think of mixing it with something. I only think about drinking it straight or on the rocks. Admittedly, I am a novice on this subject but I’m trying to expand my taste. Jameson is about all I have tasted.
I always thought I don't like Irish Whiskey. Jameson was all I knew. But my brother bought a bottle of the Tullamore Dew, and I really liked it. SO. Maybe I need to explore the category.
I haven't had Slane yet but all are great selections. I think Clontarf is really underrated especially for the price. Tullamore DEW makes a Cider Cask Finish that I HIGHLY recommend.
Bushmills....a pure malt blend but very affordable and actually has flavor, especially in a cocktail.....unlike most of these blended irish whiskeys or others that dont have age statements....but of these i prefer Powers.
I like the tasting format. I do like Irish whiskey but have never had a cocktail mixed with it. On your tasting table, I've only had the Jameson. My preferences are Red Breast 24 and Bushmills Black. You produce very informative and entertaining videos.
I am rarely mixing with Irish Whiskey, so I orefer using a higher proof one, like Teeling (Small Batch, Single Grain). All of their iterations are 92 proof, so you can feel it better (I've just used it to make a Cameron's Kick, inspired by the dedicated video, in tandem with a 92 proof Glen Scotia double cask single malt).
The best way to pull individual flavors out of whiskey is to just drink more whiskey. Think about what flavors the whiskey reminds you of and try to pinpoint it that way. It may take a while before you're able to reliably pull out certain flavors, but the more whiskey you drink, the easier it will become. Just don't allow it to become a habit obviously. Moderation with everything is a good thing. It just takes time to develop a palate. In fact, I've been going back to some of the first bottles I ever bought for my whiskey collection that I started probably three years ago now (because I need to start actually drinking the whiskey I buy), and it's like I'm tasting them for the first time again. I'm able to pull out more flavors now than when I first bought the bottle and was still trying to get beyond the alcohol burn to actually taste something or to simply taste more than caramel and vanilla. It just takes time and experience with tasting whiskey neat. One phenomenon you'll probably run into is the more experienced you get, the more "smooth" whiskies will seem boring, and the whiskies with more "bite" will end up having more flavor. Smelling the whiskey before you drink it will also help.
Thanks to all who participated in the poll! Here we showcase some affordable Irish Whiskey options for the specific purpose of mixing. You certainly don't need a pricey spirit to make a good drink! Hope you enjoy the video, and let me know if you like this sipping/tasting format. (Also thanks for your patience on the upload issues! Everything should be good now 👍). Sláinte, everyone! 🥃 🇮🇪
Second time's a charm! Sláinte!
I saw Clontarf in the shop and I decided to get it because of this video
Great video! Where’s the follow up video where you make a cocktail with Powers? I cannot find it. Thanks!
Could you do one of these tasting videos with Bourbons? Maybe one about the best bourbons for an Old Fashioned? Currently crazy about Makers Mark, MM 46, Cask Strength etc. Would love to know your suggestions.
Tell az that she should try Pepcid or Zantac which are h2 blockers as in histamine blocker (similar to Benadryl) and it can help with asian redness. It doesn’t help everyone but it may help. Plus prevent ulcers 😂
I’ve said this before, but I really love your guys’ laid back style! This felt like hanging out with you two and I smiled the whole time. This inspires me to plan to do a tasting with my (fully vaccinated) friends soon! Cheers!
This makes me happy! Definitely plan a tasting with friends when it’s safe - always a fun time. Thanks, Cory!
Was there a need to mention that you're fully vaccinated 😅
Very laid back and cool BUT still has strong opinions and preferences which I like
@@motameus1 yes
“Oloroso sherry”! LOL “oloroso” means “painful”
I didn't think it was possible to like either of you more...then you made a Zelda reference...you two are a joy! Thank you!
I’d highly recommend a trip to the slane distillery for those who are visiting Ireland. An hour outside Dublin and on the site of a lovely castle and the grounds of one of Ireland’s biggest summer music festivals. Slane is a lovely town too.
We're an Irish brand so it's great to see you repping our popular blends! The reason potstill is named as such is kind of murky but mostly to do with distinguishing our whiskey from scotch malts after the English put heavy taxes on Malted barley and we discovered that the blend of Malted and Unmalted made a deliciously silky, oily and spicey whiskey! It also never touches a column still, staying faithful to the copper! Interestingly Slane gets a bad rep over here but the bottling is lovely and the distillery is great craic to visit!
Thank you for clarifying the potstill classification! That's so interesting about Slane - I did enjoy it. I wish I could visit all of these distilleries!
@@AndersErickson Humble brag but we have connects with the Tully and Jameson distilleries, plus our set/school is right next to the Old Jameson distillery, if you decide to visit Ireland post-pandemic let us know and we'll hook you up! I'm sure they'd love the publicity also
I think Slane might have significant batch variation. Bought a bottle a year or two ago and my mind was blown by the depth of flavour from such an inexpensive blend, but my next bottle after that just tasted very flat and one dimensional. Like the same song being played by a different band.
I’m not Asian at all, but I turn VERY red and hot when I drink…I appreciate you schooling us all on the flush! Never pressure anyone to drink more than they want (or at all). Loved this taste test!
Can we just talk about the great production quality for a sec? The sound design, editing, great mic quality (no idea if concealed lavalier or a shotgun mic), properly divided sections in the timeline, great video description. And all this seamless hard work and attention to detail, on top of just great content!
It was very confusing when I said to myself "why haven't I seen their videos before?" and was very surprised to see you only have close to 4k subs... It is a crime not to sub to this channel.
Thank you for your hard work! Keep up the passion and keep flashing those wonderful smiles
Thank you so much for the kind words! It means a lot to us - so happy you found the channel. Cheers!
PS. It's a shotgun mic 🤫
I second that! Love the content
YES! Yes, yes, yes, as well as .... yes. I am a show producer & post-productionist since the 70's, for brands I am not allowed to legally name, and I can assure you that YOUR production values and results could stand up against anything we produce in our (no, I will not tell you) studios. KUDOS! And more Az, please. Shout outs to her as Best Crew. Thank you.
Great video! I'm surprised no Bushmills! I really enjoy the Black as an everyday sipper which is very affordable - better than most low-end Scotch. White and Red are good if Black isn't available. For those higher-end Irish, I agree, Redbreast is easily an excellent one and Spot is equally as good! Both better than many Scottish or Japanese! I assume there are some better than Redbreast or Spot, so I would love to see a higher-end version of this that showcases their qualities either neat or on-the-rocks! Cheers!
I think it'd be fun to do this again with some higher-end bottles! In our poll, the Bushmills Black was on there, but didn't get picked - still want to give it a shot though. Cheers to you, Andrew!
Right there with you on Bushmills and Bushmills Black
I don’t know how Jamison got in there after drinking, Slane or Tullamore DEW
@@AndersErickson Highly recommended Bushmills - oldest distillery in Ireland, great whiskeys and great distillery tour. And whiskey fact of the day... all Irish whiskey is triple distilled, hence smoother than Scotch by a mile all around. Slainte!
Where I am, the Powers Gold Label and Bushmills Black Bush are only 50 cents apart in price. I love them both with a slight preference at the moment for Powers. Would have loved to have seen the Black Bush in this though.
Sorry for the upload oopsies but your ears will be happier with this one 👂
You two have great quality, no concerns. :)
This video episode was so helpful. Irish Whiskey is an area I know next to nothing about! I learned a lot and I have some ideas I want to try out for St. Patrick's Day!! :-) P.S. I also love pretty bottles - well designed!! Oh! I always have one more thing to say!! - it's excellent that you mentioned the issue of intolerance for alcohol, in some Asian individuals. I am actually shocked how few people know about this. I did a research paper, in grad school, in this area and it's a very important issue in medicine. It's good for people to know, more should, and I am glad you left this in the video!!
@@christinecamley Thanks, Christine! So glad you enjoyed it! It was a fun one for us too. And how cool is it that you did a paper on this topic? I also find it surprising that it’s not more commonly known (I agree, it should be!). Cheers to you, and enjoy your weekend!
Man, you two really work SO well onscreen. I made my wife watch this with me first thing and she found it very enjoyable. You should do more in that format and together.
I liiiike
Anders and Azusa this was amazing! It such a great episode with a lot of fun facts. Since I can't get Clontarf, Powers, and Slane, it was interesting to see the review of these three whiskeys. I enjoyed your episode a lot! Slàinte
Really appreciate that, Kevin! Thank you. I wish you had access to all the bottles to try for yourself, but I’m glad you enjoyed the video. Sláinte! 🥃
I'm just going to say 3 things:
1. I recently found your channel and it's quickly become one of my favorites. I am working my way through all your past videos and they are always informative & entertaining. Keep up the great work!
2. I, like a few others, was surprised that Bushmills was not included.
3. Az needs to be in every video!
Tullamore Dew is always in my flask on the golf course. Great drink. Bang for your buck is amazing
Bonus points for Ocarina of Time reference! Always great content, loved the call back:)
Im new to the channel, but i really like the episodes where Azusa accompanies you. The two of you have really good on screen chemistry and provide a fun and approachable experience.
Thank you so much! It is fun to have her out from behind the camera every so often - hope to do so more often. Cheers!
I just got myself a bottle of Slane and it’s as you said- so smooth and long finish! Totally a great bargain! Thanks!
Yesssss! Redbreast 12. My go to. $58 in Sherman, TX. Specs
So, 1st, you two need to do more vids together, chemistry is great, and Anders, im sorry, but she improves the humor haha 2nd, when you were describing the Powers, it could have been a Jamacian Rum description! I 100% need to try this, thank you both!
Thanks, Trevor! I agree - Az lightens these videos up 😂 Definitely try the Powers and see what you think!
Azusa, you are 💯 correct. Straight whiskey is hard to pull out all the flavors in the profile. (And not just for beginners.) Try adding a few drops of water to the tipple. That really opens up all the flavors, as does warming it with your palm in a glencairn glass, like you do with cognac.
I used to be a Tullamore Dew dude through and through. But I discovered Slane during the pandemic and it is my go -to: neat, rocks, base cocktail spirit. Smooth and easy forward, nice evolution .
Love this double-person format!
I've been binged watching your videos, and the one i enjoyed the most was this one.
On the point of Jameson's - I've found it to be a good mixing whiskey for people who say they don't like whiskey but are willing to try if I make them a cocktail, and results have always been positive - thus making it a good gateway whiskey to convince someone that even exclusive gin drinkers and sweet-palette peoples can like whiskey cocktails. Have not noticed Powers over here in Latvia so far, but if I see it, will definitely give it a try.
It may be because I have enjoyed many over the decades at the Buena Vista Cafe in San Francisco that I prefer Tullamore Dew for my Irish Coffee. It is their preferred whiskey. For my Irish Coffee at home I have tired Jameson’s, even Markers Mark in desperation, but Tullamore Dew and coffee are a pleasurable combination in this drink. Getting the cream to properly float, however, is a work in progress.
Thanks to this video, I bought my first bottle of Power's this week for my latest Shaker and Spoon box! I tasted a little neat before mixing with it, and I could pick out the richness and complexity compared to my usual Jameson. It disappeared a bit into the first drink in the box (turmeric and ginger can do that), but I'm excited to see where I can take it next! Sláinte, all you saints and sinners! 🌹🥃
I pretty much always have a bottle of Powers on my desk. Its been the main whiskey for me for years. Love your videos, can't believe I am just now seeing this.
2 recommendations....Tullamore Dew Cider cask finish & Sexton (new kid on the block) with a lovely sherry cask finish...both under $30.
I love you both. Great vid. (Irish Canadian here, you taught me a lot.)
For Az... AND Anders!, to help with tasting whiskeys or other spirits... use a different glass. That snifter style glass you use in this video traps the fumes which "burns your nose hairs!" Which of course is bad but also the fact that, smell and taste are linked. So if you overpower one of those senses, you hamper the other. A basic straight sided rocks glass is better since it doesn't trap fumes. For me, the ideal glass is from Riedel (not sponsored or affiliated) -- it's straight sided and flared at the top so that glass not only doesn't trap fumes, it deposits liquids closer to the tip of your tongue where there's a higher concentration of taste buds. As an experiment (I've done this), pour the same whiskey into all three glasses and do a tasting. People (including myself) almost always pick the Riedel glass.
Love the channel!
Cheers and happy holidays!
I’m a huge fan of Slane, the triple cask aging is a beautiful idea
Not to worry Oz, I’m really bad at it too but your doing great! Good to have a patient instructor. I love his descriptions - I sense no ego and Anders has good energy- you guys are a good match! Enjoy ❤️🌸😘 love the videos - I make a lot of Anders cocktails 🍹
Anders, love the channel. Thanks for being Yoda on my cocktail journey! My favorite Irish Whiskey is the Sexton. Probably my favorite whiskey period. Also, very affordable. I believe the last bottle I bought was $25- in NV.
It's been since you released this before re-watching it. Aside from perfectly fitting my want to explore more Irish whiskey, I also like the format when you both engage in a tasting of new stuff. It's a good help to understand what those that I expect to share the whiskey with may experience. I know it is horrific sounding, but some otherwise lovely ppl are simply not into cocktails but do appreciate tastings.
I think you got it right, Anders. Powers is my goto Irish Whiskey, peefect for drinks, irish coffee, sipping. But as you said in the beginning, Redbreast is soo awesome.
During our 10 days in Ireland in 2022, we were introduced to Power Gold Label. It was my go to every evening. Where ever i ordered it it seemed to get the barkeep's nod of approval.
Brought a bottle home along with Jameson Triple Triple Triple.. .
Last year someone gave me a sample bottle of Jameson Orange. Move over Baileys, but Jameson Orange made the best tasting Irish coffee with a touch of heavy cream. 😋 I just got a bottle of Tullamore Dew, can't wait to try.
Brilliant video, thanks 🙏😅
My favourite Irish is Green Spot. Enjoy your weekend Anders
Thanks again, David! The Green Spot is so tasty! I’d like to do this again with another tier of whiskeys. Cheers!
Green Spot is my go to for sipping. I just wish I could source it locally since I have to drive a couple of hours to get it. The main drawback to living in West Texas.
Jameson ist always my go to! Love it in a cocktail, love it straight
Definitely can recommend the Jameson stout edition. It's has this beautiful scent and taste of coffee and dark chocolate and I love it just straight without anything
Azusa, I too feel my palate doesn't identify specific flavors as much as balance and sensorial notes. However, one tip to help amplify flavors while tasting is to slightly open your mouth and inhale simultaneously through your nose and mouth after sipping, allowing the spirit aroma/vapor to mix in your entire sinuses a bit. Your taste and olfactory are deeply tied and that can help boost flavors.
Works great with all beverages; beer-wine-spirits.
I apologize in advance if you already know this trick.
Cheers 🍻!
A couple more delicious go tos for me Tyrconnel and Kinahan's. They're both delicious and affordable. Can't recommend them enough.
Great content though! Love the chemistry and having the more "lay" person there.
I prefer Tullamore to Jamieson. Your right it is a little applely, I al ssf o like the cider cask finish Tullamore.
Irish is my go-to beverage. Tullamore Dew is my favorite for Irish Coffee. I get green sweet meadow grass with Jameson. Before I found Redbreast 12 the Powers was my favorite sipping whiskey. Slane was underwhelming. Bushmills Black Bush is an economical alternative to Redbreast 12. If I’m treating myself I go to the Redbreast 12 Cask Strength. An excellent Irish that’s not well known is a small batch blended whiskey, Barr an Uisce, from County Wicklow
i like the bottle design of the Tullamore Dew the most of all the lineup and Powers the least... call me old fashioned. You guys didn't consider the Bushmills for this exercise?
I believe Powers is what they swear by for their cocktails at the Dead Rabbit. Keep up the great content guys!
Thanks, Yong! Bushmills was considered - we listed it on the community poll (along with Kilbeggan), but the others received more votes. I was happy with this lineup though!
Highly recommend writers tears and green spot for slightly more expensive but still great value irish whiskey.
If you enjoyed the oloroso sherry cask and want something in the same price range as the Readbreast I strongly recommend Greenspot. It spends 75% of it's aging process in used bourbon casks and 25% finishing in sherry. Tastes like green apples and butter cookies, and it's delightful.
As a Viking from Illinois (family out of Swedona) I'll be picking up a bottle of Clontarf.
I could watch you guys all day
Hey guys! You weren't wrong on the note. A F# = Gb (flat), so bravo, Azusa! BTW, Azusa, I completely agree. Ireland is simply breathtaking. I traveled there in the early Spring of 2010 along the north west coast in and around Dublin. The countryside is amazing and Dublin was a joy to discover.
Just rewatching a lot of oldies but goodies 😉 lately and I will add, I am Irish, French, Dutch and German and I too turn red when I drink. My ears, cheeks and neck get red and warm 😊 My husband gives me such a good/hard time about it.
Am enjoying all of these videos so much. This one is educational and absolutely delightful.
I hope to see an episode in the future focusing on Japanese Whisky to accompany this in a series about global whiskeys.
You're onto something - this is a great idea. Thanks, Thomas!
The whiskey tribe (whiskey vault creators) just put out a video on Japanese whiskey. Interesting.
Sexton! That’s my favorite. It’s aged in sherry casks. Perfect for sipping.
I’ve got the Slane now, first bottle of it. I like it so far. One of my favorites is The Irishman: Founders Reserve. Good price, pear for days.
That sounds wonderful - love when you get pear on whiskey. I'm accruing quite the list of Irish whiskeys to pick up. Thanks, Joshua!
You did great with the notes :-) There's no good or bad actually, It's totally based on your own memories and smell library in what you recognise or associate with a smell/taste. I missed Bushmills in the line-up though. Also a very nice Irish one. I totally agree about the Redbreast 12 (15 is my favourite, but expensive), It's excellent! Just like Yellow spot by the way, give that one a shot too :-) If you like bold flavours, going for a blend Isn't the best way to go since It's blended to create a smooth experience. That said, I understand the price reasoning. I think you'd love Glendronach, and the 12 yo is not that pricey, but I've no idea about the pricing in the states. It has those deep sherry notes that would work very well in (sherry based) cocktails (I assume, still a cocktail newbie). And of course some Islay whisky like Laphroaig 10 or Quarter cask, Ardbeg 10, Caol Ila 12 etc would work very well as bold smokiness in cocktails. There are also some cheaper no-age-statement options like Laphroaig Select which I'm sure would work great in cocktails too, being a more bold pronounced flavour profile and only marginally more expensive as one of those blends. Just my 2 cents. Ow ... and next time maybe try a blind tasting ... you'll be surprised how different the outcome will be :-) Love your energy and videos, keep it up :-D
As a single note, F sharp is G flat. So you're partially correct. It's when they are incorporated in scales that the distinction is made. Mostly. Music is weird.
I was taught early on to first smell the whiskey from a distance, because the rising alcohol kind of masks the subtle flavors in a distilled product. You can only taste five things, but you can pick up many flavors from smelling.
The tasting part, I would recommend putting a few drops of water in your whiskey, to bring out more of the flavors.
I do not like Whisky but great content that has made me smile, Cheers guys
I love Zelda as much as I love Cocktails! New to your channel and I love all your content! Cheers!
This may not be read since I'm responding a year after the video, but.... I'm Irish and I found this video fascinating. The average household doesn't make cocktails very often, so I can't say which whiskey is best for mixing. However... I have always said that it's Jameson or Tullamore Dew for drinking (either neat, or with water or soda water) and Powers for Hot Whiskey and Irish Coffee.
Great review! Jameson and Tullamore are my go-tos for mixing. I’m tracking down a Red Breast 12 Lustau edition (finished in Lustau sherry casks)
That Lustau edition is so good! I hope you get it soon. The standard 12 year is definitely a favorite of mine. Thanks for the comment, Rob - especially after I had to scrap the first video!
I have only ever had the Red Breast Lustau, once, and sipping it, was amazing! In Vancouver it's about $100.00 a bottle, but it's usually readily available in stock.
@@christinecamley so jealous! It’s listed here at the LCBO in Ontario but rarely in stock... about $100
@@RobsHomeBar Availability can be so frustrating in government liquor stores. I hope stock becomes available soon!
Very entertaining and informational. Thanks for making me smile.
You two are amazing, thanks for helping me on my cocktail journey. My alcohol journey started with whiskey, and i would say I'm relatively knowledgeable about the topic. That being said i certainly learned quite a bit in this video. Love you both!
Omg, i love you she was trying to get the correct pitch!! Goals!!!
The banana and stone fruit flavors are likely from the yeast and if you slurp, mixing more air with what you are drinking, you will be able to pick up the more subtle flavors. Coffee tasters do this and you might be amazed at what a difference it makes.
Cornflakes.
That line killed me! Thanks as always for your participation Az!!
It's funny to see which of our whiskeys end up being popular in the US. And fair play for saying "Sláinte" properly
Want one with Japanese whiskey!
Anders, she has so much personally to offer this channel. Loved this video.
Great videos that are informative (especially for someone new to mixing drinks), interesting & fun to watch! Keep them up; appreciate all the suggestions & categories (e.g., holiday cocktails, hot drinks, etc.).
agreed, the best statement i have ever heard when it comes to whiskey is the best whiskey is the one you like to drink the way you like to drink it...
That is a statement to live by - I love it! 🥃
That’s the motto of the Whiskey Tribe. Join if you haven’t yet!
@@mbrooks0711 I know i am a follower just didnt know whether citing the name of another channel was bad form or not. I am not really knowing the unwritten UA-cam rules lol...
It like you read my mind! I really wanted you to make a video about this!
Great episode. The Slane is definitely one I will buy and try. Anything aged in Sherry Casks is a winner for me. But I do love sherry, a lot haha.
The sherry cask is what sold me on it too! Really nice on the finish - definitely stood out in the lineup. Cheers to you, Georgi!
@@AndersErickson I am ordering now 😉
Would love some more videos like this to learn about the different varieties of alcohol to help understand what holds up best in certain drinks or straight
I just discovered this video in your channel (been watching you for a while and appreciate all your insights and recipes). I cannot get Clontarf in Ohio - apparently its being discontinued statewide. But, I think two years later you might consider an update to this video with some other 40% ABV now available like Paddy's (every bar I've been to in Ireland has Paddy's), and a new entrant is Proper 12. My wife and I have been chasing the Irish Coffee made at the Red Fox pub on the entry to the ring of Kerry. Proper 12 is the whiskey for it 🙂 We've been to Ireland 4 times and are going in April 2024 with my band FinTan. We keep Jameson and Tullamore Dew around all the time (the TD Cider Cask is a nicer smoother version of the regular TD). Also, Bushmills from Northern Ireland is another easy to find whiskey. We built and Irish Pub in our basement and we've made many of the cocktails you've done on your channel. Thanks for making cocktails accessible to everyone (especially hobby folks like us). Great pick using Powers. Thanks so much! Last note - if you like Olorosso Sherry casked whiskey - see if you can find the Blair-Athol age in Olorosso Sherry cast - a bit pricey but sublime. We discovered Edradour and Blair-Athol when we visited Pitlochry Scotland - both are so amazing.
I have heard that Powers is very smooth, I've never tried it but will the next time! The new bottle, by the way resembles a shaker!
Also, @16:00- 03, AZ lips looked blue, maybe it was my phone- who knows but hope all is well...
Thanks for the new to me information on Irish Whiskeys, I feel like I can speak more intelligently about them now while working at Binny’s. This is a great retirement job for me, and I recommend your channel to all of the budding mixologist that come to my store in Downers Grove. Great Videos
Love this. Thank you so much! Cheers!
Holy moly, redbreast is my go to whiskey in general.
Of the Clontarf, Powers, and Slane, it seems like the only one of the three that I can purchase here in Washington is the Slane, and I have never heard of it! I'll have to give it a shot!
I agree with your flavor identification on Tullamore DEW 💯 & loved hearing you say banana for a couple. If you haven't tried Green Spot, I highly recommend (for sipping, not mixing). I find it has lovely banana & clove notes.
I love Az and hearing her opinion!!
Not sure if this has been said but here in Merica Jameson is the Irish in everyone’s home but in Ireland it’s Powers. Powers is what I keep in my cabinet all the time too. I love the Powers 3 swallow as well. It’s worth checking out.
half and a half guiness and jameson please! but if drinking irish on its own black bush is the best blended option
Jameson is the one for me. Bushmills is made in Northern Ireland and taboo to drink.
You're not alone Az....I have a difficult time detecting different flavours from a lot of liquors. I wish I were able to do it or knew how to do it but I just don't :(
Haha I’m glad I’m not alone! We’ll get there!
@@azusainaba258 I just feel dumb as an Absinthe lover, when people say "Hmm, I detect Angelica in there, or Veronica, or Hysspop. I can taste the 'holy trinity' fennel,wormwood and green anise. Beyond that, I just like the taste but wish I could give better reviews and name flavours I taste
It's not really important. You taste with your nose, not with your mouth really. If you want to learn, try smelling everything that you use/do. No matter If It's food (dried or fresh), flowers, or just mechanical parts or rubbers. It doesn't matter. And think about what you're smelling. What happens Is that It's stored in your "smell library", which is what your brain will use to identify the smells (flavours). If you say that you recognise paint oil and somebody else says car tire, It's simply because you've had different experiences that were related to that smell. Also, don't be afraid. If random words pop-up, use that. I.e. "a wet elephant in a jungle river". It's fun and actually Is related to some sort of experience or memory you've had. And actually, It says something about what taste/smell you're experiencing. It's what your brain went to first. If you smell something and It brings you back to a memory of a beach on a summer holiday, please share. It's even more valuable together with friends than a random fruit or flower (s)he identifies.
Az!! Don't be afraid/ashamed to add water! Like... lots of it!! Professional whisk(e)y blenders often proof down into the 20-30%abv range to pick out flavors and flaws. (This practice also more accurately depicts how the whiskey will behave once mixed and diluted in a cocktail.)
That Slane is a delicious whiskey. Very sweet.
Green Spot, Irish Whiskey is my personal favorite for sipping.
Green spot and sexton are two I would recommend! I've seen bushmills in the comments - while I don't like it I think you should try it or any of the variants...to me it tastes way more like a scotch than an Irish whiskey
Green Spot is my absolute favorite sipping whiskey. I'm just sad that I have to drive 2 hours to get it for $60 per bottle. Locally, it's $120 per bottle. Living in West Texas has some definite positives and negatives.
When I think of Irish Whiskey, I don’t think of mixing it with something. I only think about drinking it straight or on the rocks. Admittedly, I am a novice on this subject but I’m trying to expand my taste. Jameson is about all I have tasted.
nice, Powers Gold Label is my go to cheap whiskey to sip.
I always thought I don't like Irish Whiskey. Jameson was all I knew. But my brother bought a bottle of the Tullamore Dew, and I really liked it. SO. Maybe I need to explore the category.
I haven't had Slane yet but all are great selections. I think Clontarf is really underrated especially for the price. Tullamore DEW makes a Cider Cask Finish that I HIGHLY recommend.
If you enjoyed the Slane you will love Glendalough. They also make a kick ass gin.
Slane sounds amazing.
Bushmills....a pure malt blend but very affordable and actually has flavor, especially in a cocktail.....unlike most of these blended irish whiskeys or others that dont have age statements....but of these i prefer Powers.
I like the tasting format. I do like Irish whiskey but have never had a cocktail mixed with it. On your tasting table, I've only had the Jameson. My preferences are Red Breast 24 and Bushmills Black. You produce very informative and entertaining videos.
I am rarely mixing with Irish Whiskey, so I orefer using a higher proof one, like Teeling (Small Batch, Single Grain). All of their iterations are 92 proof, so you can feel it better (I've just used it to make a Cameron's Kick, inspired by the dedicated video, in tandem with a 92 proof Glen Scotia double cask single malt).
FYI : 3/4 Litre (750ml) approximates the old standard bottle size for spirits, the _Fifth gallon_ (757ml). 🙂🥃
Just watched this video haha but love it. I’m terrible at taste profiles but love drinking whiskey and bourbon straight
I'm so glad you said banana. I thought i was crazy for thinking so as well
The best way to pull individual flavors out of whiskey is to just drink more whiskey. Think about what flavors the whiskey reminds you of and try to pinpoint it that way. It may take a while before you're able to reliably pull out certain flavors, but the more whiskey you drink, the easier it will become. Just don't allow it to become a habit obviously. Moderation with everything is a good thing. It just takes time to develop a palate. In fact, I've been going back to some of the first bottles I ever bought for my whiskey collection that I started probably three years ago now (because I need to start actually drinking the whiskey I buy), and it's like I'm tasting them for the first time again. I'm able to pull out more flavors now than when I first bought the bottle and was still trying to get beyond the alcohol burn to actually taste something or to simply taste more than caramel and vanilla. It just takes time and experience with tasting whiskey neat. One phenomenon you'll probably run into is the more experienced you get, the more "smooth" whiskies will seem boring, and the whiskies with more "bite" will end up having more flavor. Smelling the whiskey before you drink it will also help.