Description
Garavogue 20 Year Old Release No. 1 is the first from Hawk’s Rock Distillery in County Sligo, Ireland. It is named after the Garavogue River, which flows past the distillery to the Atlantic. Master Blender Helen Mulholland built this double-distilled single malt for Sazerac.
Every drop spends two decades in wood. It first rests for at least 14 years in ex-bourbon American oak. Then it moves through four very different casks. French Muscat and Sauternes add soft sweetness. Pedro Ximénez sherry brings depth, and a Barbadian rum cask adds a fresh, fruity lift.
You will notice vanilla, warm peach and spun sugar on the nose, with gentle florals and raisin. The palate leads with vanilla and citrus sweetness, then buttery ripe apples. The finish is long and sweet, with a burst of fresh fruit from the rum cask.
It is bottled at 47% ABV (94 proof). Whisky Advocate scored it 92 points and called it “a garden of delights.” Release No. 1 is a limited, small-batch bottling.
Enjoy it neat, or try it with a splash of cool water. Try it beside roasted nuts, a square of dark chocolate or a wedge of aged cheese. It is a lovely pick for anyone who enjoys layered, fruity Irish single malt.
