Belfast-based bottler and bonder Samuel Gelston's has announced the launch of its latest expression - a Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, matured in Jurassic Park star Sam Neill’s Pinot Noir casks.
The new release is very much a family affair, as Gelston’s owner, Johnny Neill and Sam, who is based in New Zealand are cousins. This collaboration brings together the two sides of the family, whilst also merging the brilliant flavours and aromas of the two hemispheres.
The liquid has been triple distilled and matured for 19 months in ex-bourbon casks, before spending a further 21 months maturing in Sam’s French oak casks, which had previously held his prestigious Central Otago Pinot Noir.
Johnny Neill, owner of Samuel Gelston’s Irish Whiskey, said, “The Neill family have been making quality spirits for generations. My great, great grandfather Harry Neill set up the successful McCallum Neill & Co in Australia in 1851, and Percival, one of his younger brothers set up Messrs Neill & Co in Dunedin in 1882 - Percival was Sam Neill’s great grandfather.
“Sam and I have continued this legacy in our respective sides of the world – I’ve been focused on the creation of artisanal spirits using local ingredients, whereas he has dedicated nigh on 30 years winegrowing super premium pinot noir. For the first time in 150 years, we’re bringing together the expertise from both sides of the family – the result being an incredibly exciting sweet, honeyed and very inviting single pot still whiskey.”
Samuel Gelston’s Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey finished in Pinot Casks (40% ABV, 70cl) has an RRP of €44.99, is currently available in L. Mulligans, Celtic Whiskey Shop and all good whiskey shops.
