Glendalough Single Cask - Calvados XO Cask Finish

From the scenic Wicklow Mountains in Ireland, Glendalough Distillery offers this refined Single Grain edition matured primarily in ex-bourbon barrels and then given a distinctive finish in Calvados XO apple-brandy casks from Normandy, France. These casks previously held French apple brandy for over six years before being used for finishing.

The result is a whiskey that bridges Irish single-grain clarity with orchard fruit depth and subtle brandy-wood character — ideal for the discerning collector or drinker seeking something a little different from the mainstream.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Golden straw with a hint of warm amber, reflecting the Calvados-cask influence.

Nose: Fresh orchard fruits (apple and pear) blended with floral vanilla, gentle honey and a touch of toasted oak. The Calvados cask adds a subtle note of baked apple tart and gentle orchard brandy character.

Palate: Smooth and inviting: butterscotch, toffee-sweet malt, stewed apples and pears, and a touch of cinnamon and woody spice. The finish in Calvados barrels brings an elegant fruit-brandy note, lending both richness and subtle complexity.

Finish: Long and gentle: orchard fruits linger, with a hint of pepper and oak spice balancing the sweetness and bringing depth.

Technical Details

Producer: Glendalough Distillery, Wicklow Mountains, Ireland.

Expression: Single Grain – Calvados XO Cask Finish

Age / Maturation: Primarily matured in first-fill bourbon barrels, then transferred to Calvados XO apple-brandy casks which had previously held brandy for over six years.

ABV: 42%

Volume: 750ml

Cask Regime: Bourbon casks + French oak Calvados brandy casks (XO grade)

Collector’s Note

This release stands out as a creative finishing expression from Glendalough. The finishing in Calvados XO casks bridges Irish whiskey with French apple-brandy tradition, offering a niche flavour profile that will appeal to both whiskey enthusiasts and those who appreciate orchard-fruit brandy nuances. Its approachable ABV makes it accessible, while its craftsmanship and limited availability give it collector appeal.