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Table of contents
A Visit to Royal Oak
The first time I stepped into the Royal Oak Distillery in County Carlow, Ireland, I was greeted by the warm scent of malted barley and the soft hum of copper stills at work. As a whisky lover, I knew I was about to witness something special — the making of single pot still whiskey, a style that is uniquely Irish and steeped in tradition.
The Ingredients – Malted & Unmalted Barley
Unlike single malt whisky, which uses only malted barley, single pot still whiskey combines malted and unmalted barley in the mash bill. This blend creates a distinctive creamy mouthfeel and a complex, spicy character that sets it apart from other styles.
The Distillation Process – Copper Pot Magic
The mash is distilled in traditional copper pot stills, often three times, to achieve exceptional smoothness. Copper plays a vital role here — it removes unwanted sulphur compounds and enhances the spirit’s natural sweetness.
Cask Maturation – Bourbon Meets Sherry
Once distilled, the spirit rests in carefully selected casks. For example, The Busker Single Pot Still matures first in first-fill bourbon barrels, adding vanilla and caramel notes, before finishing in Oloroso sherry casks, which bring rich dried fruit and nutty depth.
Tasting the Result
When you pour a dram, expect aromas of leathery tobacco, gentle spice, and autumn fruits like figs and prunes. On the palate, warming pepper and spice dance with smooth toffee, leading to a long, elegant finish of oak and sandalwood.
Why It Matters
Single pot still whiskey is more than a drink — it’s a taste of Irish heritage. Each sip tells the story of craftsmanship, patience, and the perfect marriage of grain, copper, and wood.
Ready to experience it for yourself? Explore Pot Still’s in our shop and taste the tradition.
