We’re about 4 days away from St. Patrick’s Day, so why not feature a brand that brings together the heart of Ireland and America. I recently had a chance to try Keeper’s Heart much awaited second release, Irish + Bourbon and the main question is, good or not? Let’s find out.

Bourbon used was aged over 4 years and had a mash bill of: 75% corn; 21% rye; and 4% Malted Barley. Grain whiskey (maize and malt) is an Irish whiskey aged more than 4 years. Finally, the last Irish whiskey used (malted and unmalted Barley) is Triple Distilled Pot Still Whiskey aged over 4 years.

Nose: caramel, pecans and oak
Palate: pepper, vanilla and cocoa
Finish: smooth and lightly sweet
ABV: 46%
Cost: $40-$50

It’s no secret that I love this brand. Their Irish + American whisky was one of my favorite whiskies from 2022 (you can find my review here on Instagram and blog). I wanted to know if this one held up just as well. To me this one is sweeter, a lot of that coming from the bourbon surely, but that sweetness does mellow out with the blending of the grain.

This expression highlights the best parts of all the whiskies used in the blend. It doesn’t lean more Bourbon than Irish or vice versa. It simply stands on its own making it quite unique. I like it, it’s good quality whiskey that gets me excited about the possibilities of this brand.

Is it better than their Irish + American expression? Truthfully… I’m not ready to get off the Irish + American bandwagon. It was one of my 2022 favorites after all. But this Irish + Bourbon is good and will be even better in a cocktail. So, if you had to choose, I’d still say go for the original Irish + American and then venture onto this one.

Cheers!

Note: The contents on my blog are solely my opinion. To me every palate is different! Although I may or may not like a product, I always recommend for people to try it and make up their own minds.