Intro into Mitchell & Sons
Mitchell & Sons, a distinguished name in the world of fine Irish whiskeys, has been crafting exceptional spirits for over a century. Originating from Dublin, this family-owned business is renowned for its unique approach to whiskey production, particularly the famous “Spot” range, which includes Green Spot, Yellow Spot, Blue Spot and Red Spot. Each variant offers a distinct taste profile, catering to diverse palates and preferences.
In recent years, Mitchell & Sons Whiskeys have seen a significant rise in popularity, largely due to a renewed global interest in premium Irish whiskeys and the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation. Their traditional yet innovative methods, combined with the rich history and heritage of their products, have captured the hearts of whiskey enthusiasts worldwide.
When considering the purchase of a Spot Whiskey, the initial question is, “Which one should I choose?” In this post, we will explore the differences among the Spot Whiskeys and help you determine which one best suits your palate.
Green Spot Whiskey
Green Spot Whiskey, a celebrated member of the Spot Whiskey family, is a quintessential example of Mitchell & Sons’ dedication to crafting premium Irish whiskey. Green Spot has captured the attention of whiskey aficionados around the globe.
Green Spot is a single pot still whiskey which is produced using a combination of malted and unmalted barley and triple-distilled in traditional copper pot stills. The spirit is then matured for a minimum of 7 Years in a combination of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks. The use of these casks allow for a vibrant and fresh taste.
- Nose: The aroma is rich with orchard fruits, such as green apples and pears, complemented by a hint of vanilla and a touch of spice.
- Palate: On tasting, Green Spot reveals a harmonious blend of sweet barley, toasted wood, and creamy vanilla. The presence of sherry casks imbues it with subtle notes of dried fruit and a gentle spiciness.
- Finish: The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering spice and a smooth sweetness that leaves a lasting impression.
Green Spot is versatile, suited to a variety of occasions. It can be enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to open up its flavours. Its balanced profile also makes it an excellent choice for pairing with cheeses, desserts, or even a well-crafted cocktail.
Its rich history, combined with an outstanding flavor profile, makes it a must-try for both newcomers and seasoned whiskey lovers. Whether you’re savoring it on a quiet evening or sharing it with friends, Green Spot Whiskey promises a memorable experience.
Yellow Spot Whiskey
Yellow Spot Whiskey is another distinguished member of the Spot Whiskey family, crafted by Mitchell & Sons. This expression was only reintroduced to market in 2012 after production being previously ceased in the 1950s. Known for its unique aging process and complex flavour profile, Yellow Spot offers a delightful experience for whiskey enthusiasts.
Yellow Spot is a single pot still whiskey, meticulously produced using a blend of malted and unmalted barley. Like the Green Spot, Yellow Spot undergoes triple distillation in traditional copper pot stills, ensuring a smooth and refined spirit.
What sets Yellow Spot apart from the other expression in is its maturation process; it is aged for a minimum of 12 years in a combination of three different types of casks: American bourbon barrels, Spanish sherry butts, and Spanish Malaga casks. The Malaga casks sets the Yellow Spot apart from the Green Spot and it contributes to a distinctive sweetness and depth to the whiskey.
- Nose
- The aroma of Yellow Spot is inviting and complex, with notes of honey, apricot, and citrus fruits. The influence of the Malaga casks adds a layer of sweet tropical fruits, while hints of vanilla and toasted oak provide a well-rounded olfactory experience.
- Palate
- On tasting, Yellow Spot opens up to reveal a rich and creamy texture. Flavors of honey and peach dominate, complemented by a medley of spices, including clove and nutmeg. The interplay of bourbon and sherry casks imparts nuances of dried fruits and chocolate, creating a luxuriously smooth and layered palate.
- Finish
- The finish is long and satisfyingly warm, with a gentle sweetness that lingers, accompanied by a subtle hint of spice. The complex flavors evolve gracefully, leaving a lasting impression.
Yellow Spot Whiskey is ideally savoured neat or with just a splash of water, which brings out its lively flavors. Its refined character pairs beautifully with a wide range of foods, especially rich desserts, cheese boards, or savory meals. Its unique aging process and exceptional flavour profile make it a standout choice for those who appreciate the finer things in life. With its deep, complex character and rich heritage, Yellow Spot promises a sophisticated and unforgettable whiskey experience.
Red Spot Whiskey
After being absent from the market for over five decades, Red Spot was reintroduced in 2018 to great acclaim. This revival has brought back a beloved classic, cherished by whiskey enthusiasts for its robust character and intricate flavor profile.
Like the other whiskeys in the range, Red Spot is a single pot still whiskey, produced using a traditional blend of malted and unmalted barley. The whiskey is triple-distilled in copper pot stills, a method that ensures smoothness and depth which the Spot Whiskeys are renowned for. What sets Red Spot apart from the others in the range is its maturation process, which spans a minimum of 15 years and utilizes a harmonious combination of three different types of casks: bourbon barrels, Spanish sherry butts, and Sicilian Marsala wine casks. The Marsala casks impart a distinctive richness and a touch of sweetness that elevates the complexity of Red Spot.
- Nose: Red Spot greets the senses with an enticing bouquet of ripe red berries, complemented by hints of apple and pear. The influence of the Marsala casks is evident, adding layers of toasted oak, vanilla, and a subtle spiciness to the aroma.
- Palate: On the palate, Red Spot is remarkably rich and full-bodied. Flavours of succulent red fruits, such as cherry and raspberry, emerge prominently, mingling with undertones of baked apple and honey. The whiskey’s time in sherry butts contributes notes of dried fruits and a touch of dark chocolate, creating a perfectly balanced and indulgent flavour profile.
- Finish: The finish is long and satisfying, characterized by a gentle warmth and a lingering sweetness. Spicy notes of cinnamon and nutmeg gradually fade, leaving a delightful aftertaste that invites you to savour each sip.
Red Spot Whiskey is best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water. Its robust character makes it an excellent companion for rich and savory dishes, such as roasted meats or hearty stews. For those with a sweet tooth, pairing Red Spot with dark chocolate or a fruit-based dessert can enhance its fruity and spicy notes. Red Spot Whiskey offers a distinguished experience. Its return to the market has been met with enthusiasm, reaffirming its status as a treasured gem in the world of whiskey.
Blue Spot Whiskey
Blue Spot Whiskey Cask Strenght is the most recent addition to the renowned Spot Whiskey family. It reappeared on the market in 2020 after a long hiatus. Whiskey fans are drawn to its youthful vibrancy and robust character.
Blue Spot is a single pot still whiskey, crafted with the traditional mix of malted and unmalted barley. It undergoes triple distillation in copper pot stills to ensure a smooth and refined spirit. What makes Blue Spot particularly unique among the Spot Whiskeys is its cask strength bottling and its intricate maturation process. Blue Spot is aged for a minimum of 7 years in a diverse combination of casks, including bourbon barrels, sherry butts, and Portuguese Madeira casks. The inclusion of Madeira casks imparts a distinctive fruitiness and complexity to the whiskey.
- Nose
- The aroma of Blue Spot is vibrant and inviting, with an array of fresh fruit notes such as pineapple, mango, and apricot. Subtle undertones of vanilla, toasted oak, and a hint of spice add depth and intrigue to the aromatic profile.
- Palate
- On tasting, Blue Spot offers a rich and full-bodied experience. The palate is greeted with bursts of tropical fruit flavours, complemented by creamy vanilla and a touch of honey. The influence of the Madeira casks introduces notes of dried fruits and a gentle nuttiness, enhancing the whiskey’s complexity and balance.
- Finish
- The finish is long and warming, with a delightful interplay of sweetness and spice. Lingering notes of cinnamon and cloves, along with a subtle oakiness, leave a memorable impression that invites you to savour each sip.
Blue Spot Whiskey is best enjoyed in its natural cask strength form, allowing enthusiasts to experience its full spectrum of flavors. However, adding a few drops of water can help open up its intricate layers. Its lively character makes it an excellent choice for pairing with a variety of foods, from rich cheeses and charcuterie to spiced desserts. Blue Spot Whiskey offers a unique and adventurous tasting experience, making it a standout choice for those seeking something bold and distinctive within the Spot Whiskey range.
In conclusion, each Spot Whiskey provides a distinct tasting experience, from the fresh and versatile Green Spot to the bold and adventurous Blue Spot, catering to diverse palates and occasions.