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Michael Collins, Top Blended Whiskey

Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Blended Whiskey


This week, we return to the Ultimate Beverage Challenge Spirits Competition to present the top blended whiskeys. 16 blended Irish whiskeys were tasted in this round of the competition, from which judges selected five finalists and one Chairman's Trophy winner. Michael Collins Blended Irish Whiskey brought home the title, with a top score of 96 points.

For more challenge results, check out our full coverage of the series. To find out more about the judging and the competition itself, check out the Ultimate Beverage Challenge website.

Photo courtesy josewolff via Flickr/CC

Chairman's Trophy Winner: Michael Collins Blended Irish Whiskey Ireland, 40%

"Harmonious, delectably peppery aromas include dried figs, caramel, sawdust and vanilla; taste profile features compelling flavors of dry breakfast cereal, nougat and candy bar." 96pts - Paul Pacult, USC Judging Chairman

Jameson Gold Blended Irish Whiskey Ireland, 40%

"Lush and complex offering waves of ripe oranges and tropical fruits with accents of caramel, toffee, cinnamon, vanilla, and Sherry. Silky and full-boded while vibrant with baked orchard fruits and honey trailing on the finish." 95pts -  Sean Ludford, USC Assistant Chairman

Midleton Very Rare Blended Irish Whiskey Ireland, 40%

"A true classic in every sense. Perfectly proportioned with alternating waves of baked orchard fruits, toffee, toasted nuts and grain, honey, apricot, and a beautiful melange of baking spices." 95pts - Sean Ludford, USC Assistant Chairman

Jameson 18 Years Old Blended Irish Whiskey Ireland, 40%

"A great marriage of malt and sweet, mature grain with notes of toffee, roasted nuts, baked orchard fruits, and sweet baking spices with hints of vanilla. Wonderfully balanced." 94pts - Sean Ludford, USC Assistant Chairman

Kilbeggan 15 Years Old Blended Irish Whiskey Ireland, 40%

"Incredibly elegant and complex with sweet grassy notes that are found in all of the Kilbeggan whiskies supported by toffee, vanilla, toasted coconut, banana bread and mint. A great aperitif." 94pts - Sean Ludford, USC Assistant Chairman

Slane Castle Blended Irish Whiskey Ireland, 40%

"A very pretty blend with fruit, caramel, spice, and hints of honey and vanilla. Superbly balanced with great length." 94pts - Sean Ludford, USC Assistant Chairman

For Complete Results Visit:

Ultimate Spirits Challenge Results
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Tags: blended whiskey, spirits competition, Ultimate Beverage Challenge

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