Best Drinking Friends Release No. 3 2018/2024
Nose
After a little air contact, the flavour profile develops. Vanilla and honey emerge, followed by a lovely cereal sweetness that is typical of Irish whiskies. Pear and almond join in, creating an almost dessert-like composition. The freshness remains, but it is no longer distracting, but invigorating.
Taste
What was still a little hesitant on the nose unfolds into a true feast of sweetness on the palate. The whisky is almost sticky sweet - but in a very pleasant way. The vanilla dominates at first, accompanied by fresh apple and a creamy texture that really fills the mouth.
The marzipan note that develops is particularly impressive. It's like biting into a fresh marzipan roll - sweet, nutty and incredibly delicious. The blossom honey is omnipresent and gives the whisky an almost meditative quality. There is also a slight maltiness that gives the whole thing structure and prevents it from becoming too monotonous.
Finish
The finish is medium-long and warming. The oak spice now comes into its own without becoming too dominant. There is a lovely balance of vanilla and light spice that stays with you long after the last sip
Thoughts
The Best Drinking Friends Release No. 3 is a whisky that needs time - both in the glass and in the judgement. What initially seems a little discordant develops into a really tasty Irish whiskey with character. The sweetness is its trademark, but it is skilfully balanced by spicy notes. For whisky beginners, this drop is definitely worth a recommendation, as it is not too complex, but still offers enough depth to remain interesting.
Rating: 79/100 - Very Good (Marcel: 77 | Sascha: 80)
Value for Money: 3/5 - Ok
FAQ: The Most Common Questions
❓ Can this whisky also be used for cooking?
👉 With its sweetness and marzipan character, that would almost be a waste! But if you're keen to experiment, it would be perfect for desserts - a dash in tiramisu or over vanilla ice cream. The honey-vanilla notes would also work in a whisky glaze for pork fillet.
❓ Why is the whisky only 8 years old, but tastes so "mature"?
👉 This is due to the climate zone and the choice of cask. Irish whiskies often mature faster than Scottish whiskies because the milder climate allows for a more even development. The Great Northern distillery also seems to use very active casks that give off a lot of flavour. Sometimes a well-made 8-year-old is more interesting than a boring 18-year-old