Peated Irish whiskey has been far from a common sight outside of a smattering of Connemara bottlings. But growing demand and consumer interest in different styles seems to be pushing the needle in a variety of new-ish directions for the category – one such being the utilisation of smoke. Both Teeling Blackpitts and prior to it, W.D. O’Connell’s Bill Phil releases (particularly the cask strength – which we’ll review for you at a later date) have generated a palpable buzz with their announcements. A buzz which to my mind is warranted.