The iconic Michell & Son 'Spot' whiskey was so named because of the practice of marking casks with a spot of coloured paint to indicate the age of the whiskey contained within. Originally there were four spotted whiskey's available: 7 year old Blue Spot, 10 year old Green Spot, 12 year old Yellow Spot and 15 year old Red Spot. The Blue and Red botllings have not been produced for many years and few examples remain in existence. In 1971 Irish Distillers consolidated production at Midleton Distillery, and changed the receipt of their only spot still in production at the time - Green Spot.
Modern Green Spot whiskey is a non-age statement blended Irish whiskey made from 7 - 10 year old single pot still whiskeys which have been aged in a combination of refill bourbon and sherry casks. it is therefore a touch younger than the original 10 year old version. It is the only pot still whiskey to have been in continuous production since the early 20th Century.
Nose: Steely and metallic – akin to copper coins. Toffee combined green apples, and a heavy sense of herbalness. Background notes of crème brûlée and a hint of PVA wood glue.
Taste: Soft mouthfeel. Fruits have become more tropical in nature now. Toffee, cereals and wood spicing. Easy going
Finish: On the short side and somewhat spirit with slight astringency
Green Spot is light and easy going. Whilst arguably not complex there is some undoubtedly depth here – the balance is good and the fresh, summery flavours are ideal for relaxing with at the end of a long warm day.