Drink of the Day: Green Spot (Ireland)
A historic single pot still Irish whiskey with roots in Dublin's 19th-century bonding tradition.
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Green Spot (Ireland)
Green Spot is a celebrated single pot still Irish whiskey, recognized for its smooth, complex character and deep historical ties to the Dublin whiskey trade. It remains a benchmark for the traditional Irish style of whiskey production.
Company History
The story of Green Spot begins with Mitchell & Son, a family business established in 1805 at 10 Grafton Street in Dublin. Originally purveyors of fine wines and confectionery, the Mitchell family expanded into the whiskey bonding business in 1887. They would send empty wine, sherry, and port casks via horse and cart to the local Jameson Distillery. These casks were filled with new-make spirit and returned to the Mitchell family's cellar warehouses in Dublin to mature. Today, the brand is produced at the Midleton Distillery in County Cork, and while Mitchell & Son remains involved in the brand's legacy under the stewardship of Jonathan Mitchell and his son Robert Mitchell, the global distribution is managed by Pernod Ricard.
Product History
The name "Green Spot" originated from the Mitchell family's practice of marking their aging barrels with dabs of colored paint to denote the age potential of the whiskey inside. A green spot historically indicated a whiskey aged for approximately 10 years. Green Spot is a triple-distilled single pot still whiskey, crafted from a mash of both malted and unmalted barley. It is typically matured for 7 to 10 years in a combination of first- and second-fill bourbon barrels and ex-sherry casks, resulting in a profile known for notes of orchard fruit, honey, vanilla, and toasted oak.
Review
Green Spot is highly regarded by critics and enthusiasts alike. Based on independent assessments, it holds an average rating of approximately 4.1 out of 5 stars. This average is derived from the community rating on Distiller (4.12/5), a "B+" rating from The Whiskey Reviewer, and its status as a highly-rated staple in the single pot still category as noted by The Whisky Study.
Serving Guide
Glassware: Glencairn glass or heavy-bottomed rocks glass | Serving temperature: Room temperature | ABV: 40%
Serving Suggestions
- Serve neat to appreciate the complex aromatic profile of orchard fruits and spices.
- Add a few drops of room-temperature water to open up the bouquet and soften the intensity.
- Pair with mild cheeses or light desserts to complement the whiskey's honey and vanilla notes.
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Drink of the Day feature with 3-source review by the PENN Food & Spirits Desk.
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