Single Malt Irish Whiskies are celebrated for their unique characteristics and exceptional craftsmanship, and this year’s finalists from the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition are no exception. Each whiskey offers a distinct taste of Ireland’s rich distilling heritage. Here are the top contenders in the Best Single Malt Irish Whiskey category, with the ultimate winner to be announced at the Top Shelf Awards Gala.
Knappogue Castle 21
Aged for 21 years, this whiskey boasts a rich and sophisticated profile with notes of dried fruits, vanilla, and oak. The extended aging process imparts a depth of flavor that is both refined and complex, making it a standout choice for discerning whiskey enthusiasts.
Knappogue Castle 14
Knappogue Castle 14 offers a vibrant and well-balanced single malt experience. Aged for 14 years, this whiskey features a harmonious blend of fruity and spicy notes, with hints of apple, cinnamon, and a touch of oak. Its smooth and rounded profile makes it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the nuances of aged Irish single malts.
Waterford Whisky Peated Cuvée Fumo
Waterford Whisky Peated Cuvée Fumo is a bold and innovative single malt that combines traditional Irish whiskey-making with peated influences. This whiskey offers a unique flavor profile with notes of smoky peat, tropical fruits, and a touch of spice. Its higher alcohol content adds to the intensity and complexity, making it a must-try for those who appreciate a robust and distinctive pour.
Glendalough Distillery 7yo Irish Single Malt Mizunara Finish
Aged in rare Mizunara oak casks, this whiskey features a delicate and nuanced flavor profile with notes of sandalwood, coconut, and dark chocolate. The Mizunara finish adds a unique twist, creating a whiskey that is both exotic and refined.
Bushmill’s Irish Whiskey Causeway Collection 2010 Double Moscatel
Bushmill’s Irish Whiskey Causeway Collection 2010 Double Moscatel is a premium single malt that showcases the distillery’s expertise in cask maturation. Finished in Moscatel casks, this whiskey offers a rich and aromatic profile with notes of honey, raisins, and a hint of citrus. Its higher proof and complex flavor make it a luxurious and memorable choice according to our competition judges.
Join us at the Top Shelf Awards Gala to celebrate these outstanding whiskies and discover the ultimate winner. Take advantage of the summer promotion to purchase your tickets and be part of an unforgettable evening honoring the finest in Single Malt Irish Whiskey.