Natterjack Tasting

Natterjack Irish Whiskey stands out in the world of Irish spirits for its truly unique and innovative approach. It is a carefully crafted blend that pays homage to the triple-distillation tradition synonymous with Irish whiskey while boldly incorporating maturation techniques more commonly associated with American bourbon. This dual heritage results in a whiskey profile that is exceptionally smooth, yet possesses a distinctive character the makers affectionately describe as having an "American accent."

The whiskey is brought to life by Gortinore Distillers & Co., a company dedicated to pushing the boundaries of Irish whiskey production. Their vision for Natterjack was to create a spirit that bridged the Atlantic, marrying the best of both whiskey worlds.

The backbone of Natterjack is its distinctive mash bill, which is heavily weighted toward American influence. It consists of 80% corn and 20% malted barley. This high proportion of corn contributes significantly to the whiskey's inherent sweetness and soft mouthfeel, a characteristic frequently found in high-corn bourbons.

The whiskey begins its maturation journey in ex-bourbon barrels, allowing it to absorb the classic vanilla, caramel, and spice notes imparted by the seasoned oak. However, the finishing stage is where Natterjack truly distinguishes itself. The spirit is transferred to new, or 'virgin,' American oak barrels. This final finish delivers a powerful layer of complexity, depth, and structure. The virgin oak introduces bolder flavors of toast, charred wood, and a pleasant, lingering spiciness, completing the transition to its signature "American accent." The combination of Irish smoothness and American oak influence makes Natterjack a compelling and versatile whiskey, perfect for sipping neat or as a sophisticated base for classic and contemporary cocktails.