Glendalough 7 Year Old Single Malt Mizunara Finish offers a unique fusion of Irish tradition and Japanese craftsmanship. This premium whiskey is triple-distilled and matured for seven years in first-fill American oak barrels before being artfully finished in rare Mizunara oak casks sourced from Hokkaido. Known for its delicate and complex influence, Mizunara oak imparts exquisite notes of sandalwood, incense, temple wood, and subtle spice, elevating the classic Irish malt to an ethereal experience.
The nose is captivating, unveiling layers of honeyed pear, toasted almond, and fragrant heather flowers. Beneath these lies a gentle wave of incense and sandalwood, complemented by hints of vanilla custard and aromatic cedar—a sensory journey reminiscent of a cedar sauna after rainfall. This refined aromatic profile reflects the Mizunara’s subtle yet unmistakable character, adding depth without overpowering the whiskey’s natural brightness.
On the palate, the whiskey opens with familiar Irish sweetness—malted biscuit, apple crumble, and golden syrup—before blossoming into more exotic flavors such as nutmeg, dried mango, and a whisper of white pepper. The Mizunara finish introduces a signature temple incense note, wrapping the creamy malt body in dry spice and delicate sandalwood smoke. Its texture is soft yet structured, akin to fine linen draped over oak, offering a harmonious balance of smoothness and complexity.
The finish is long, contemplative, and slightly drying, with lingering notes of vanilla pod, sugar-dusted chestnut, and subtle hints of green tea and coconut husk. This lasting impression embodies a seamless dialogue between the grassy brightness of Irish malt and the airy depth of Japanese oak.
Key Features:
- Irish malt aged in Mizunara oak, blending bold innovation with wild botanicals from the Wicklow Mountains
- Matured in American oak and finished in rare Japanese Mizunara casks, uniting eastern and western traditions
- Pot still distilled and double cask aged, showcasing notes of sandalwood, citrus, and soft peat layered over creamy malt
Glendalough’s Mizunara finish stands apart from other whiskies by showcasing the Japanese oak’s character with restraint and elegance. It is neither a sweet bomb nor an overpowering wood-forward spirit but a refined collaboration between two distinct whiskey traditions
