Tasting Notes
- Nose: Golden honey, toasted vanilla bean, dark chocolate shavings, subtle oak spice, hint of roasted barley
- Palate: Rich honey sweetness, creamy vanilla custard, dark cocoa powder, gentle white pepper, whisper of coffee grounds
- Finish: Medium length with lingering dark chocolate, warm vanilla, and a delicate peppery spice that builds slowly
Product Details
| Spirit Type | Blended Irish Whiskey |
|---|---|
| ABV | 40% (80 Proof) |
| Volume | 750ml |
| Age Statement | No Age Statement (NAS) |
| Distillery | Irish Distillery (Undisclosed) |
| Region | Ireland |
| Barrel Type | American Virgin Oak, Ex-Irish Stout Cask Finish |
| Bottled By | McShein's, Waterbury, CT |
Perfect For
- Fireside evenings: The stout cask influence creates perfect warmth for cool nights
- Beer and whiskey enthusiasts: Unique crossover appeal bridging two beloved categories
- Neat sipping: Complex enough to enjoy slowly, approachable enough for everyday
- Gift giving: Distinctive packaging and story make it memorable for Irish whiskey lovers
Frequently Asked Questions
What does McShein's Cock & Hen taste like?
McShein's Cock & Hen offers a rich combination of honey and vanilla sweetness balanced by dark cocoa and subtle spice. The ex-stout cask finish adds depth and complexity, creating notes reminiscent of chocolate stout while maintaining the smooth character of Irish whiskey. It's approachable yet distinctive, with enough complexity to reward slow sipping.
Is McShein's Cock & Hen good for cocktails?
While this whiskey shines when sipped neat, its honey and chocolate notes work beautifully in spirit-forward cocktails like an Irish Old Fashioned or Whiskey Sour. The stout barrel influence adds unique depth to coffee-based cocktails and pairs exceptionally well with dark chocolate or caramel flavors.
How should I drink McShein's Cock & Hen?
This whiskey is best enjoyed neat or with a single ice cube to open up the complex flavors from the stout cask finish. Serve in a Glencairn glass to concentrate the honey and cocoa aromas. Allow it to breathe for a few minutes to fully appreciate the interplay between the virgin oak and stout barrel influences.
What makes the stout cask finish special?
The ex-Irish stout cask finishing process imparts unique chocolate and coffee notes while adding a creamy mouthfeel that complements the honey and vanilla from the American oak. This innovative approach bridges Ireland's whiskey and brewing traditions, creating a flavor profile that's distinctly different from traditional Irish whiskey maturation methods.
Is McShein's Cock & Hen worth the price?
For Irish whiskey enthusiasts seeking something unique, McShein's Cock & Hen offers excellent value through its distinctive stout cask finishing and approachable price point. The complex flavor profile and innovative production method make it a standout choice for those looking to explore beyond traditional Irish whiskey expressions.
You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.