W.D. O'Connell Union Road

Union Road is W.D. O'Connell's approachable, versatile 5-year-old blend, bringing together single malt and grain whiskey. The whiskey matures in no fewer than four different cask types — ex-bourbon, virgin oak, ex-oloroso sherry and re-charred bourbon casks — resulting in a layered, complex flavour you would hardly expect from an entry-level bottle.

€42,95

WebwinkelKeur 9.8 · 327 reviews
Shipping within the Netherlands
Personal advice from Edwin & Miriam
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Taste & character

M4W Flavor Compass

Our Flavor Compass divides whisky into four flavor areas. The dot indicates where this bottle stands.

Spicy & HotFor adventurous & curious moments

Sweet Dry Light Rich

Soft & Fruity Full & Sweet

Spicy & Hot

Smoky & Powerful

Tasting notes

Nose

Medium length, spicy with a soft, sweet aftertaste.

Specifications

Distillery: Various Irish distilleries (blend)
Brand: W.D. O'Connell Whiskey Merchants
Country of origin: Ireland
Region: Various regions
Whisky style: Blended Irish Whiskey (malt & grain)
Cask type: Ex-bourbon, virgin oak, ex-oloroso sherry, re-charred bourbon
Maturation: 5 years
ABV: 43% ABV
Volume: 70 cl
Chill-filtered: No
Colouring added: No

Who is it for?

An ideal introduction to Irish whiskey for anyone looking for more complexity of flavour than the average blend has to offer.

Food pairing

Pairs well with spiced cake, smoked cheese or a light chocolate mousse.

Why I chose this

Union Road shows that an entry-level blend need not be dull at all. Four types of cask make it more layered than you would expect from a five-year-old. I recommend it to anyone who wants to explore Irish whiskey without reaching straight for the most expensive bottle.

Edwin — Mood4WhiskyOwner & Whisky Ambassador

Frequently Asked Questions

Which casks does Union Road mature in?

In four different cask types: ex-bourbon, new oak, ex-oloroso sherry and re-charred bourbon casks. Each cask adds something, from vanilla and woody bite to sherry sweetness. Together they give this five-year-old blend of malt and grain whiskey a layered, spicy character: Spicy & Lively on our Flavour Compass.

What is a re-charred bourbon cask?

A used bourbon cask whose interior has been charred again. This reactivates the wood, so it once more releases notes of vanilla, caramel and toasted oak. In Union Road this cask contributes to the woody bite on the palate.

Can you use Union Road in a cocktail?

Yes, at 43% ABV and with a spicy, layered profile it works well in classics such as a whiskey sour or an Irish coffee. It is equally good neat, though. Try it without ice first so you can properly taste the cinnamon and toasted oak.