EGAN'S PREMIUM IRISH WHISKEY
TULLAMORE, IRELAND
Why Buy: In the ever-evolving landscape of whiskey connoisseurship, Irish single malts have steadily gained recognition as a force to be reckoned with, offering remarkable value and complexity relative to their cost. This pair of exemplary new releases from Egan's – 'Conviction' and 'Endeavour' – is not only light on the wallet, but also, and more importantly, impresses with its over-delivering, showcasing what can be achieved through meticulous cask maturation and extended aging, and offering layers of depth and nuance that defy the price tags.
The Story: The origin of Egan’s can be traced back to the mid-19th century, when it operated as a respected whiskey bonder and bottler, and was among the most respected merchants in all of Ireland. It wasn't until recent years, however, when its fifth- and sixth-generation descendants staged a revival of the brand – based in Tullamore, in county Offaly – that its true potential was unlocked. Thanks to its “re-founding” and a passionate emphasis on craft, Egan's has undergone a renaissance, embracing its common-man legacy while determinedly pushing the boundaries of contemporary Irish whiskey-making.
The Bottlings: For 'Endeavour,' the pursuit of complexity and balance was paramount to Master Bonder Rupert Egan. Triple distillation ensures a velvety smoothness, while maturation in a unique quartet of casks – virgin American oak, bourbon, sherry, and imperial stout – imbues the whiskey with a marvelous kaleidoscope of flavors. The inclusion of a modest peated component further enriches the profile. In producing 'Conviction,' meanwhile, Egan drew inspiration from the brand's award-winning expressions, blending single malt and single grain whiskeys, each aged for no less than a decade. The final finishing in XO Cognac casks brings a rich decadence that belies the whiskey's modest cost.
Our Tasting Notes: 'Endeavour' opens, tantalizingly, with vanilla sweetness, Earl Grey tea, dried fruits, and warm tar on the nose. The palate weaves sweet toffee, chocolate, dried fruits with oak and walnuts, underscored by peated nuances. The finish is lingering, with tannins, peat, and black pepper spice all combining to take you home on a dry, savory note. 'Conviction' is equally alluring in its aromatics, pulling you in with a weave of floral grains, honey, dried apricot, and vanilla on the nose. From there, you open out into a complex arrangement of light wafers, leather, sultanas, almonds, ginger-infused chocolate and zesty fruits. Ginger returns on the finish, along with lemon zest and licorice notes, but the effect is more muted than it sounds, taking you home on a long, gentle wave.
ABV: 46% (92 proof).
Fun Fact: According to Jonathan Egan, the brand's lead "re-founder," the most famous Egan’s expression back in the day was Egan’s Number Eight, which was produced in tandem with the legendary John Jameson and his son.
Our Guarantee: We always buy and source directly from the estate, so you can be confident that your whiskeys will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance. Don't hesitate to secure yours today!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in 8-12 Weeks. All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer not valid in IL, KS, MI, NC, NV, NY, TN, VA, & WA. This offer is for ONE WEEK, or until sold out, and will expire on Wednesday, June 19, 2024.
