Teeling Whiskey Wonders of Wood Series 3 Swedish Oak
The Irish Teeling Distillery is releasing the third part of its Wonders of Wood series in Germany today. After Chinkapin Oak (Part 1) and Portuguese Oak (Part 2), the next cask from Northern Europe is now selected: Virgin Swedish Oak. The recipe is supposedly simple: the triple-distilled single pot still Irish whiskey, made from 50% malted and 50% unmalted barley, matures for an unknown number of years exclusively in barrels of a rare Swedish white oak. The whiskey is bottled non-chill-filtered at an alcohol strength of 50%. We are very curious to see what influence the wood has had on the distillate. Speaking of wood: Teeling works together with the Tree Council of Ireland and actively cares for the wood stock of native trees.
The panel
Mean 80.5 · spread 1
Value for money 3/5
- Distillery
- Teeling
- Type
- Single Pot Still Whiskey
- Country
- Ireland
- Strength
- 50% ABV
- Character
- floral
Tasting
Nose
It is clear from the very first nosing that this whiskey has depth. The flavours develop slowly, starting off light and floral, with a hint of citrus fruit that seems almost playful. But then the heavier notes come into play. A fascinating spiciness, paired with toasted oak, runs through the entire flavour. The vanilla remains subtle, but it is there, lending the whole a soft, sweet note. After a little time in the glass, there is even a floral hint of elderflower - a surprising twist.
Palate
In the mouth, the woody flavour asserts itself with full force. The first sip is intense, almost rough, with a clear woody character reminiscent of a well-seasoned oak barrel. But the Teeling whiskey does not remain one-dimensional. Over time, exciting nuances develop in the glass: mint, dark chocolate and a bright cherry note emerge. The longer you keep the whisky on your tongue, the nuttier and stronger it becomes. The mouthfeel is almost oily, the texture rich and heavy. There are sweet notes of molasses and hints of walnut oil, which are rounded off by a light tannin note.
Finish
It lingers on the palate for a long time, dry and with a light pepper spice that pleasantly rounds off the flavour. A pinch of nutmeg and the omnipresent toasted oak wood accompany the final moments, while the vanilla note gently fades away.
Verdicts
Marcel
A whisky that’s great fun with its robust woodiness and playful citrus flair. The 50% ABV is wonderfully integrated, making every sip an experience and inviting you gladly on this spicy journey. For anyone who enjoys a whisky with character, featuring sweet and nutty depth, this Teeling is a well-rounded choice.
Sascha
The balance between the intense wood character and the delicate aromas of mint, cherry, and chocolate is remarkably well achieved here. The powerful structure at 50% ABV is neatly rounded off by a long, dry finish with spicy nuances, even though the wood dominance occasionally feels a bit too pronounced. A technically flawless Irish Pot Still that impresses with its complexity and texture.
What it is worth
No auction record for this distillery, so we cannot tell you what this bottle is worth. We would rather say that than guess.