Blogger, Boston, Boston Blogger, Boston Whiskey Women, Ireland, Irish whiskey, Latina Blogger, Latina Whisky Blogger, New Blog Post, Not Sponsored, peat, Peat Smoke, peated whiskey, peated whisky, Review, single malt, Single Malt Irish Whiskey, Single Malt Whiskey, Single malt whisky, St. Patrick's Day, Whiskey Blogger, Whiskey Review, Whisky Blogger, whisky tasting, Women Who Whiskey

Hinch Distillery

Posted by whiskeywench on

We’re less than a day away from St. Patrick’s Day, and for today’s review we’re heading to Northern Ireland to explore the Hinch Distillery. Founded in 2016, the distillery sits between Belfast and the scenic Mourne Mountains. I sampled several of their expressions: the Small Batch, the 5 Year, the Single Malt, and the Peated Single Malt. Honestly, I was really impressed with this lineup. While I enjoyed each expression, one rose above the rest. I’ll share quick notes on three of them, then dive deeper into a full review of my favorite.

Small Batch (43%): A blended whiskey aged 3–4 years in bourbon casks. The nose opens with dried fruit and vanilla, leading to a youthful palate with light sweetness. The finish is gently sweet, reminiscent of shortbread.

5 Years (43%): This blend spends four years in first-fill bourbon casks before an additional year in virgin oak. The nose brings vanilla and a touch of citrus zest. On the palate, spices, oak, and cinnamon take the lead, finishing with light honey and fruit.

Single Malt (43%): Matured in ex‑bourbon American oak and Oloroso sherry casks, this expression stood out as my second favorite. The nose opens with oranges, honey, and spices, followed by a palate of apples, biscuit, and a soft sweetness. The finish lingers with vanilla, a touch of zest, and light sweetness.

I’ll admit it: I’m a sucker for peated whiskies. Hinch’s Peated Single Malt was outstanding. It’s aged in ex‑bourbon, Madeira, and Oloroso sherry casks. Now let’s dive in.

Nose: light smoke and fruit

Palate: chocolate, honey and subtle smoke

Finish: pepper, chocolate and peat smoke

ABV: 43%

Cost: $45

I noticed several reviews complaining that this whiskey was “too peated,” which is funny because it’s right there in the name. If peated whiskey isn’t your style, this isn’t going to change your mind. But for those who enjoy peat, I find this more approachable than Connemara. And I say that as a big Connemara fan—this feels like a softer, lighter version.

I love how the peat weaves together with chocolate and honey notes, giving the whiskey great balance without overpowering the palate. It’s easy to sip, and at this price, it’s an absolute steal. Sure, it has a bit of youthful character, and it’s not meant to be a jaw‑dropper, but I genuinely enjoyed it. Definitely worth grabbing a sample.

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 people to try it and make up their own minds.

Leave a comment