Natterjack Irish Whiskey Stirs Up Limited-Edition Bottling Mistakenly Overaged in Virgin American Oak

(Photo: Natterjack Irish Whiskey)

Natterjack’s iconic toad logo is taking a leap into the unknown with a limited-edition bottling rife with “happy” accidents.

Fittingly dubbed The Mistake, the spirit began life as a typical Irish whiskey aged three and half years in ex-bourbon barrels before being transferred to new American oak — Natterjack’s calling card. Unlike the brand’s flagship expression — finished in American oak for just one year — The Mistake was accidentally left to age for two years. After discovering 46 casks of the fortuitous liquor, Natterjack realized it had a hit on its hands.

“After discovering the barrels, we opened one of them and there was this burst of hickory BBQ and toasted walnut aromas. At first taste, we could tell right away there was double the flavor and extract, and powerful oak. That’s when we knew we had something special,” Aidan Mehigan, founder and CEO of Natterjack Irish Whiskey, said in a news release.

The expression varies from the formula in other ways. While the brand’s standard whiskey is bottled at 40% ABV, The Mistake notches it up a few degrees to 46% ABV. In keeping with its theme, the bottling will be released in three deliberately misprinted varieties retailing at $69.99.

Since its inception in 2019, Natterjack has described itself as a fusion of Irish spirit and American character. In addition to utilizing ex-bourbon casks, the distiller boasts an 80% corn and 20% malted barley mash bill characteristic of many Kentucky favorites. The brand’s Cask Strength release embraced those influences to wonderful effect, delivering its signature recipe at a scorching 63% ABV.

Those hoping to check out Natterjack The Mistake can find it here.

Natterjack The Mistake Tasting Notes, Per the Brand

Nose: “A burst of Hickory BBQ and toasted walnut is followed up by singed cinnamon and seared orange zest. Sweet almond then gives way to Leather & Grain or Saddle & Feed!”

Taste: “Vanilla Bean on the fore palate gives way to a burst of Anise/Liquorice. Powerful oak is enhanced by warm molasses, toffee and just a hint of a granny smith apple!”

Finish: “The finish is lovely, like a long hug from an old friend.”

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