Natterjack’s Happy Accident: The Mistake That Became a Masterpiece
As a whisky enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the stories behind the bottles. The tales of experimentation, innovation, and sometimes, happy accidents. Natterjack’s latest release, The Mistake, is a perfect example of the latter.
The Mistake: A Limited-Edition Bottling
Natterjack’s iconic toad logo is taking a leap into the unknown with a limited-edition bottling that’s rife with “happy” accidents. The spirit began life as a typical Irish whiskey, aged three and a half years in ex-bourbon barrels before being transferred to new American oak - Natterjack’s calling card. However, unlike the brand’s flagship expression, which is finished in American oak for just one year, The Mistake was accidentally left to age for two years.
Natterjack’s The Mistake: A happy accident
After discovering 46 casks of the fortuitous liquor, Natterjack realized it had a hit on its hands. Aidan Mehigan, founder and CEO of Natterjack Irish Whiskey, described the moment they opened one of the barrels: “There was this burst of hickory BBQ and toasted walnut aromas. At first taste, we could tell right away there was double the flavor and extract, and powerful oak. That’s when we knew we had something special.”
The Expression: A Fusion of Irish Spirit and American Character
Natterjack has always described itself as a fusion of Irish spirit and American character. The brand’s Cask Strength release embraced those influences to wonderful effect, delivering its signature recipe at a scorching 63% ABV. The Mistake takes it a step further, with a 46% ABV bottling that’s deliberately misprinted in three varieties, retailing at $69.99.
Tasting Notes: A Burst of Flavors
The nose is a burst of hickory BBQ and toasted walnut, followed by singed cinnamon and seared orange zest. Sweet almond then gives way to Leather & Grain or Saddle & Feed! The palate is a vanilla bean on the fore, giving way to a burst of anise/liquorice. Powerful oak is enhanced by warm molasses, toffee, and just a hint of granny smith apple. The finish is lovely, like a long hug from an old friend.
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Conclusion
Natterjack’s The Mistake is a testament to the power of experimentation and innovation in the world of whisky. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life come from unexpected places. If you’re looking to try something new and exciting, The Mistake is definitely worth a shot.
