Athrú 14 Year Old – Annacoona

The Athrú 14 Year Old – Annacoona is a highly sought‑after Irish single malt whiskey that embodies the artistic vision and meticulous craftsmanship of Lough Gill Distillery in County Sligo, Ireland. This expression marks the first release from the Athrú “Creation Trilogy”, a limited‑edition series of 14‑year‑old whiskies inspired by Irish landscapes, myth, and legend. Each bottling in the trilogy — including Annacoona, Knocknarea, and Keshcorran — reflects a unique narrative and cask‑driven flavour profile, and all were curated under the guidance of master blender Billy Walker.

The name “Annacoona” references an ancient local site on Benbulben Mountain near Lough Gill — a dramatic flat‑topped peak revered in Irish lore and closely tied to stories of star‑crossed lovers and heroic journeys. The evocative naming underscores Athrú’s deeper connection to heritage and place, setting this whiskey apart from typical age‑statement releases.

What makes Athrú 14 Year Old – Annacoona exceptional is its maturation journey and balance of influences. The spirit began life as a well‑aged base; it was matured for eleven years in ex‑bourbon American oak casks, which laid a rich foundation of gentle vanilla, toasted oak and supple malt character. After this primary ageing, it was finished for three years in a combination of Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry casks, resulting in depth, sweetness, and complexity that define the final expression.

Bottled at 48% ABV, this whiskey stands at an ideal strength to deliver vibrant flavor without overwhelming the palate. The nose greets you with enticing aromas of orange oil, dried fruits and dark chocolate, interwoven with subtle spice and hints of caramel — sensory impressions that reflect both sherry influence and bourbon maturation.

Upon tasting, the palate unfolds layers of rich sweetness and nuanced complexity. The interplay of Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso influence brings forward delightful notes of raisin, forest fruits, salted caramel and dark chocolate, all balanced by elegant spice and a resounding core of well‑integrated oak. These factors combine to create a dram that is both indulgent and refined, offering richness without aggression.

The finish leaves a lasting impression — medium but memorable, with lingering echoes of citrus zest, spice and gentle oak tannins. Whether sipped neat to fully appreciate its intricate profile or enjoyed with a drop of water to open further layers, Annacoona rewards thoughtful tasting and invites repeated exploration.

Beyond its sensory appeal, Annacoona is noteworthy for its limited release status. Only 6,600 individually numbered bottles were produced, making it a prized item for collectors and enthusiasts alike. This exclusivity, paired with its carefully curated maturation strategy, sets it apart as a collector’s piece as much as a sipping whiskey.

The story of Athrú itself is one of transformation — “athrú” meaning change — and this whiskey expresses that ideal. While the Lough Gill Distillery continues to build its own distillate stock, releases like Annacoona showcase the potential and vision behind the brand through the artful selection and finishing of aged whiskey stocks.

In a market increasingly populated with modern whiskies of all styles, the Athrú 14 Year Old – Annacoona stands as a compelling example of premium Irish single malt — one that blends tradition, myth and maturation mastery into each bottle. Whether enjoyed as a luxury gift, a centerpiece of a curated whiskey collection, or the highlight of a special‑occasion tasting, this expression delivers a rich, story‑rich experience rooted in the landscapes and legends of Ireland.

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