Irish whiskey has long been celebrated for its smooth, approachable character – a blend of delicate fruit, creamy vanilla, and subtle spice. But what if you crave something different? Something bolder, richer, and decidedly darker? Proper No. 12, the brand known for its cask-strength whiskies, is answering that call with the launch of its Black Reserve Irish Whisky, timed perfectly for the upcoming celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. This isn’t your typical Irish whiskey; they’ve been diligently hoarding a seriously dark, peaty expression, and now they’re unleashing it upon the world, promising a transformative experience for whiskey enthusiasts.
[Image of Proper No. 12 Black Reserve Irish Whisky](https://thewhiskeywash.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Proper-No-12-Black-Reserve-Irish-Whisky-1.jpg)
This launch represents a significant shift for Proper No. 12, a brand quickly gaining recognition for its robust cask-strength offerings. However, the Black Reserve takes things to a whole new level, promising a richer, spicier profile heavily focused on sherry-matured casks. The brand’s commitment to delivering intensity and complexity is evident from the outset. As noted by *Whisky Advocate*, the core of the blend utilizes single malts from Jameson Distillery, striving for a dynamic balance between traditional Irish whiskey characteristics and a decidedly bolder expression. It’s about layering complexity and intensity – a welcome departure for those seeking a more profound whiskey experience. This isn’t about simply adding peat; it’s about crafting a fully realized, captivating expression.
## Key Features of the Black Reserve
The Black Reserve isn’t just a fleeting trend; it’s a meticulously considered whiskey built around several key elements. Let’s break down what makes this release so compelling:
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Peat-Driven Flavor:
The whiskey’s development centers around a carefully guarded, heavily peated expression. This isn’t a subtle touch of peat; it’s a robust, assertive presence that dominates the flavor profile. Expect a smoky, medicinal character, interwoven with layers of sweetness and spice. The peat smoke isn’t overwhelming, but rather provides a foundational depth that begs to be explored.
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Sherry Influence:
Heavily matured in sherry casks – specifically Oloroso sherry – contributing to the rich, spice-forward notes. The influence of the sherry adds dried fruit, dark chocolate, and warm cinnamon to the mix, beautifully complementing the peat smoke. This combination creates a luxurious mouthfeel and a lingering finish.
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Jameson Distillery Heritage:
Blended with single malts from Jameson Distillery, offering a familiar yet elevated taste. While leveraging the quality and consistency of Jameson’s spirit, the Black Reserve isn’t merely a Jameson product. The interplay between the two distilleries adds another layer of nuance and depth.
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Dark & Dramatic Appearance:
A naturally dark color – stemming from the heavily sherry-matured casks – enhances the overall experience. The whiskey boasts a deep mahogany hue, adding to its imposing presence and suggesting the robust flavors within.
## Why You Should Care
The Black Reserve is more than just another Irish whiskey; it’s a statement. It proves that not all Irish whiskey needs to be all sunshine and rainbows. While Irish whiskey is often associated with delicate flavors, Proper No. 12 is demonstrating that the spirit can be intensely flavorful and profoundly complex. This release caters to the discerning whiskey drinker who appreciates depth, intensity, and a touch of brooding complexity. It’s for those who enjoy exploring the darker side of spirits and aren’t afraid of a robust, assertive experience. The Black Reserve elevates the Proper No. 12 brand while adding to the diversity of peated Irish whiskies available, offering a compelling alternative for those seeking something truly special. It’s a whiskey that demands attention, and rewards those willing to delve into its multifaceted character. The Black Reserve is a testament to the evolving landscape of Irish whiskey, showcasing a new direction for a brand already known for its boldness.
Source:
[The Whiskey Wash](https://thewhiskeywash.com/whiskey-news/proper-no-12-launches-black-reserve-irish-whisky-in-time-for-st-patricks-day/)
