Walsh Whiskey releases Cognac cask-finished bottling

by Melita Kiely

Ireland’s Walsh Whiskey Distillery has expanded its Writers’ Tears range with the launch of a Cognac cask-finished expression.

Writers’ Tears Copper Pot – Deau XO Cognac Cask Finish comprises a blend of single malt and single pot still whiskey that has been finished for nine months in 12 French oak casks that previously held Deau XO Cognac for between 10 to 15 years. Triple-distilled, the whiskey has been bottled at 46% abv. It will be available to purchase in eight markets – the US, Ireland (including travel retail), Germany, Holland, Canada, France and the UK, priced at US$59.99. Bernard Walsh, founder of Walsh Whiskey Distillery, said: “Everything about this expression comes from the highest quality inputs, from our own unique blend of triple-distilled single malt and aged single pot still whiskeys, to the finish in French (Limousin) oak casks from the renowned family cooperage of Allary that have been seasoned by the Legaret family’s Deau XO Cognac. “Everything builds to a special experience that we are very proud to put our own family name to and are delighted to share with fans of the Writers’ Tears portfolio, as well as those who might be trying a Writers’ Tears expression for the very first time.” Last month, Walsh Whiskey and Italian drinks group Illva Saronno ended their joint venture following a disagreement over the future direction of the business. In 2018, Walsh Whiskey signed a €4 million (US$4.89m) distribution deal with Woodman Wines & Spirits in Ontario, Canada. The company also created the "first" organic single pot still Irish whiskey last year, which will be released under the Writers' Tears brand.