Pearse Cooper’s Select Irish Whiskey Review

By Richard Thomas

Rating: B+

One might think it a bit odd that the only age statement whiskey in the new Pearse line, the 12 year old Founder’s Choice, is not the most expensive. That is because old isn’t the only thing that makes a whiskey pricey. In Ireland and Scotland, the type of cask might add a lot to Irish whiskey. The cheapest casks type out there are the American Standard Barrel (ASB or bourbon barrel) or a hogshead built from ASB staves, and anything that isn’t one of those two can cost two or three times as much. Finishing just adds to that bill.

Cooper’s Select is a blended whiskey, malt and grain, that was matured in ex-bourbon barrels and then given a solid finish in first-fill Sherry casks. Like the other Pearse whiskeys, it is bottled at 42% ABV.

The Whiskey
In the glass, this sherried Irish Whiskey has a gold coloring, reflective of the extra wood time. The nose is rich and nutty, with a note of citrus and something of a potpourri aspect.

The flavor here is quite yummy, smacking of golden raisins seasoned with lemon zest and a bag of spices that one might find in some light gingere cookies. The finish has more of that mild ginger cookie goodness, along with a malty note.

Cooper’s Choice isn’t complex, and has more substance than depth. It’s main selling point is that the Sherry finish has made it just plain tasty.

The Price
This is the most expensive whiskey in the line, costing $69.99.