McCarthy’s Oregon Single Malt Whiskey, considered the first American single malt, was founded by Steve McCarthy over 25 years ago after a trip to Ireland. Finished in PX sherry casks, this expression is bottled at cask strength of 112.2 proof and retails for about $124.99.
Currants, cranberry sauce, and blueberry cobbler offer a jammy sweetness that recedes on the midpalate to woodsmoke and chicory before a sweet reprise on the generous finish with notes of dark jams, gianduja, and barrel char. Exceptional.
The silky palate concentrates the toffee flavor, layering a faintly nutty hint. Adding water brings more drying oak and cayenne heat into the lightly smoky finish.
