J.J. Corry The Hanson Irish Whiskey (70cl, 46%)

The Hanson is an Irish whiskey from J.J. Corry, blended from several Irish single grain whiskeys aged between five and eleven years. They matured in first and second-fill bourbon barrels and in casks that previously held American craft whiskeys from Kentucky, Tennessee and New York. Louise McGuane shaped it into a soft, fruity whiskey with clear oak influence and a creamy texture. It is bottled at 46%, non-chill-filtered and without added colour. The name recalls Gauger Hanson, son-in-law of the original J.J. Corry, who worked for the revenue service at Kilrush harbour early in the 20th century, checking casks. Tasting notes describe vanilla fudge, toasted coconut, grilled pineapple and lime on the nose, then green apple and fresh oak on the palate, and a light, salty finish.