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Kinahan’s Irish Whiskey: Heritage Reborn Through Innovation
Few names in Irish whiskey carry a legacy as long-standing and influential as Kinahan’s. Founded in 1779, this Dublin-born house is not only one of Ireland’s oldest whiskey brands but also one of its most daring. From its earliest days, Kinahan’s has been synonymous with innovation, helping to define what Irish whiskey could be. Today, that same pioneering spirit is alive and well, embodied in the brand’s bold KASC Project — an experiment in wood and flavour that challenges tradition whilst respecting heritage.
A History Steeped in Influence
Kinahan’s roots run deep in the story of Irish whiskey. Established at a time when Dublin was a thriving hub of distilling, the company quickly stood apart. Its whiskey became so highly regarded that it was chosen as the official whiskey supplier to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland — a connection still marked today by the “LL” emblem on every bottle.
Over the centuries, Kinahan’s grew into a respected name not just in Ireland but abroad. Its whiskeys were praised for their quality, their smoothness, and their distinctive character. But more than anything, Kinahan’s became known as a house unafraid to break from convention, to reimagine whiskey’s potential.
The KASC Project: Rewriting the Rules of Maturation
At the heart of this modern chapter is the KASC Project. This ground-breaking initiative does not simply rest on heritage but actively redefines what maturation can mean in whiskey.
Traditionally, Irish whiskey matures in oak — American bourbon barrels or European sherry casks being the most common. Kinahan’s decided to ask a bold question: what if one cask could be made of multiple woods, each contributing its own character.
The result is the world’s first Hybrid Cask. Constructed from five different wood types — Portuguese oak, American oak, French oak, Hungarian oak, and chestnut — this cask creates a flavour canvas unlike anything else in the industry.
Each wood type adds its own layer:
• American oak brings sweetness and vanilla.
• French oak contributes spice and structure.
• Hungarian oak adds richness and depth.
• Portuguese oak offers fruit and body.
• Chestnut rounds it all with nuttiness and warmth.
Together, they form a harmony of complexity and balance that simply cannot be achieved through single-wood maturation.
Heritage with Responsibility
Kinahan’s has long straddled a unique space: steeped in history, yet ambitious enough to experiment. Innovation does not stop at flavour. The producer has also taken a responsible approach to its use of rare woods. By committing to reforestation projects and sustainable practices, Kinahan’s demonstrates that progress and stewardship can go hand in hand. Their approach ensures that future generations will inherit not only great whiskey but also the landscapes and resources that make it possible.
KASC [B] – The World’s First Hybrid Cask Blended Irish Whiskey
The “B” stands for Bold — a blended Irish whiskey matured in Kinahan’s pioneering Hybrid Cask, built from five different woods. Bottled at 43% ABV, it delivers a layered, adventurous profile.
• Nose: Juicy red fruits (plum, apple, pear) with tropical notes and caramel spice.
• Palate: Vanilla and charred oak balanced with ripe mango, chocolate-caramel, and sun-dried fruits.
• Finish: Lingering spice, bright citrus, honeycomb, and syrupy pineapple.
Innovative yet approachable, KASC [B] showcases how wood can shape whiskey into something truly distinctive.
Small Batch – Classic Irish Elegance
For those who prefer something more traditional, Small Batch embodies balance and smoothness. Bottled at 46% ABV, it highlights Kinahan’s craftsmanship in a refined style.
• Nose: Light caramel, buttered cereal, and gentle orchard fruit.
• Palate: Apricot, vanilla, and a hint of baking spice.
• Finish: White pepper, honey, and toasted oak warmth.
Elegant and versatile, Small Batch is equally at home sipped neat, with a drop of water, or mixed into an elevated cocktail.
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Kinahan's KASC Project B Blended Irish Whiskey70CL / 43% ABV
Special Price £40.50 Regular Price £44.50 -
