The Dubliner Master Distiller's Reserve is a blended Irish whiskey, put together by master distiller Darryl McNally from single malt and single grain whiskeys. It is a blend of single malt and single grain aged in ex-bourbon barrels for up to 10 years, bottled at 42% ABV. The brand hails from Dublin, and the product reached the market in January 2018.
Behind the creation of the blend stands the Dublin Liberties Distillery. Master distiller Darryl McNally created this whiskey by combining seven different Irish malt and grain distillates matured in ex-bourbon barrels. Maturation in bourbon casks is the hallmark of the entire The Dubliner range, alongside expressions such as The Dubliner 10 Year Old Single Malt.
In the glass it shows an amber colour. The nose is fruity, with notes of apples, peaches and a touch of apricot, complemented by subdued spices and a delicate maltiness in the background. On the palate it is fruity and light – first apples, peaches, honey and dried flowers, followed by piquant notes of ginger and white pepper, which need a moment to develop and linger through the finish with accents of honey and vanilla.
Other tasting notes indicate a similar profile. The whiskey is described as sweet, rich in vanilla, with notes of caramel, malt, oak, spices, apricot, apples and a hint of white grapes. On the palate it is silky and balanced, with a light spiciness, and the finish brings long, gentle malty and fruity notes.