Tasting NotesWhen John Teeling converted an industrial alcohol plant in County Louth into what became "Cooley" distillery in the late 80s, the seeds were planted for the revival of Irish whiskey. Kilbeggan, Tyrconnell, and Connemara all sprung forth, as well as a slew of barrels for smaller brands to grow and experiment. Post-Beam Suntory acquiring Cooley and the brands, the second generation of Teelings went to work on founding their eponymous whiskey company. Today, happily aging and bubbling away in downtown Dublin, the Teeling Whiskey Co. is still owned by John and Stephen, but with a 40% stake by Bacardi, the whiskey has grown its global presence. Presumably, the brand began life from older Cooley stocks, finished in ex-rum casks and bottled non-chill filtered at 92 proof. The nose is an explosion of fruit and malt with a rich cereal grain and sweet tropical fruit note emerging. On the palate more malt, sweet spice, and a treacly, syrupy rum-soaked spice cake. The finish is long, sweet, and simply pleasurable.