In the heart of Dublin, beneath the bustling cobbled streets, lies a legacy steeped in history and flavour – The Spot Whiskeys. Perhaps you’ve heard whispers of their rich character or caught a glimpse of their distinctive bottles on a top shelf. Now, you’re about to understand why these whiskeys are so beloved. A treasure of Ireland, these whiskeys have not only stood the test of time but have evolved to become icons of Irish distilling craftsmanship. From the historic cellars of Mitchell & Son to the global whiskey stage, the Spot family – Green, Yellow, Red, Blue, and the newest addition, Gold – each tells a unique story of heritage, quality, and taste.

The Spot Whiskeys are more than just spirits; they are a journey through time, encapsulating the essence of Irish tradition and the evolution of whiskey making. This blog post invites you on a voyage to discover the rich history, intricate production processes, and exquisite flavours of each of these remarkable whiskeys. Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado or a curious newcomer, prepare to be enthralled by the world of Spot Whiskeys, where every sip is a chapter of Irish history.

The Heritage of Spot Whiskies

Nestled in the rich tapestry of Dublin’s history, the story of Spot Whiskies is intertwined with the legacy of Mitchell & Son, a family name synonymous with Irish whiskey excellence. Spanning over two centuries, the Mitchell family has been at the forefront of whiskey bonding, a tradition that has shaped the very essence of the Spot Whiskies.

It all began in the 1800s when Mitchell & Son established themselves as purveyors of fine wines and confectionery. However, their venture into whiskey bonding in the early 1900s marked a pivotal chapter in their history. The family would purchase casks of single pot still whiskey and mature them in their cellars beneath the bustling streets of Dublin. This unique maturation process, deep within the city’s underbelly, bestowed upon the whiskey a distinctive character, one that could only be crafted in the heart of Ireland.

The Mitchells, with their keen intuition for quality and flavour, employed a novel method to track the aging of their whiskeys. They marked the barrels with daubs of coloured paint, a simple yet ingenious system that gave birth to the names we know today: Green Spot, Yellow Spot, Red Spot, and the elusive Blue Spot. Each colour represented a different maturation period, crafting a spectrum of flavours and complexities.

Green Spot, the most renowned of the family, matured for a decade, emerged as a harmonious blend of fruity and spicy notes, a testament to the Mitchells’ mastery in whiskey bonding. Yellow Spot, with twelve years under its belt, offered a richer, more robust profile. Red Spot, aged fifteen years, presented a symphony of flavours, a true connoisseur’s delight. And the rare Blue Spot, a seven-year maturation, remained a cherished memory, a whisper of the past.

The heritage of Spot Whiskies is not just a tale of a family business; it’s a narrative of Irish tradition, innovation, and the unyielding spirit of Dublin. Each bottle from the Spot range is a piece of history, a sip of the city’s soul, matured under its streets and shared with the world. Today, the legacy of Spot Whiskies continues as they are meticulously crafted by Irish Distillers at the renowned Midleton Distillery in Cork, Ireland, specifically for Mitchell & Son of Dublin, blending traditional methods with modern expertise.

Green Spot: A Jewel in the Crown of Irish Whiskey

Green Spot, a name that resonates with whiskey enthusiasts around the globe, stands as a proud testament to the rich heritage of Irish whiskey. Its origins trace back to the early 1900s, born from the cellars of Mitchell & Son in the heart of Dublin. This exquisite whiskey, initially crafted for the discerning palates of the Mitchell family’s clientele, has evolved into a symbol of Irish whiskey craftsmanship. Green Spot’s enduring legacy is not just in its flavour but also in its historical significance, being one of the few original Irish pot still whiskeys to have survived through the 20th century.

First introduced around 1920, Green Spot has become a benchmark for Irish pot still whiskey, maintaining its esteemed reputation for over a century. Green Spot’s role in the revival of the Spot Whiskey range is pivotal. As one of the first to be reintroduced, it set the standard for quality and complexity, rekindling the world’s love for Irish pot still whiskey. Its enduring popularity among enthusiasts is a testament to its balanced profile and the Mitchells’ legacy in whiskey bonding.

The production process of Green Spot is a meticulous blend of tradition and precision. It is a single pot still whiskey, meaning it is produced from a mix of malted and unmalted barley, distilled in a pot still. The spirit is then aged in a combination of American oak, sherry casks, and bourbon barrels. This triad of cask influences imparts a unique complexity and depth to Green Spot, setting it apart in the world of whiskeys.

On the nose, Green Spot greets you with a bouquet of aromatic orchard fruits, notably green apples and pears, intertwined with hints of fresh barley and a touch of honey sweetness. As you take a sip, the palate unfolds layers of flavour – zesty citrus, creamy vanilla, and a subtle oakiness, all balanced harmoniously with the natural spice of the pot still. The finish is delightfully smooth, leaving a lingering warmth and a sweet spice aftertaste.

To truly savour Green Spot, it is best enjoyed neat or with a small splash of water. This allows the intricate flavours and aromas to emerge fully, offering a pure tasting experience. For those who prefer a whiskey cocktail, Green Spot also shines in a classic Whiskey Sour or a refreshing Highball, where its fruity and spicy notes can be beautifully complemented by the cocktail’s ingredients.

Green Spot is not just a whiskey; it’s an experience, a journey through the essence of Irish whiskey-making. Each glass is a celebration of history, a tribute to the art of distillation and maturation, and a delight for the senses.

Green Spot Variants: Exploring the Diversity of a Classic Irish Whiskey

Green Spot, renowned for its place in the pantheon of great Irish whiskeys, extends its legacy through a range of exceptional variants, each offering a unique twist on the classic. These variants are not just different expressions but are stories in themselves, showcasing the versatility and depth of the Green Spot lineage.

1. Green Spot Château Léoville Barton: This exquisite variant is a fusion of Irish and French winemaking heritage. Initially matured in traditional bourbon and sherry casks, it is finished in Bordeaux wine barrels from the esteemed Château Léoville Barton. This finishing process imparts a distinctive wine character to the whiskey, with notes of dark fruits, deep spice, and a hint of French oak. The palate is a harmonious blend of the classic Green Spot profile with layers of red berries, sweet spices, and a lingering finish that echoes the complexity of Bordeaux wines.
2. Green Spot Château Montelena: Another testament to the art of cask finishing, this variant is matured in ex-bourbon and sherry casks, followed by a term in Zinfandel wine casks from the Château Montelena in Napa Valley. The result is a whiskey that beautifully marries the traditional pot still spiciness with rich wine-infused flavours. On the nose, it presents a bouquet of ripe berries, vanilla sweetness, and subtle herbal notes. The palate is a delightful dance of classic pot still spices, stone fruits, and a hint of toasted oak, culminating in a finish that is both sophisticated and lingering.

Each of these Green Spot variants represents a unique exploration of flavour, bringing together the best of Irish whiskey craftsmanship and the world of fine wine. Whether enjoyed neat, with a dash of water, or as part of a refined cocktail, these variants offer a new way to experience the beloved Green Spot, each with its own story and character.

Yellow Spot: The Revival of a Time-Honoured Irish Whiskey

Yellow Spot, once a beacon in the landscape of Irish whiskey, has been masterfully revived, bringing back a taste of history to modern whiskey connoisseurs. Originally part of the Spot family produced by Mitchell & Son, this cherished whiskey had faded into the annals of time, only to be resurrected with the same dedication to quality and tradition that defined it decades ago. The revival of Yellow Spot in 2012 was a significant moment, marking a renewed appreciation for aged single pot still Irish whiskey and re-establishing this historic brand in the hearts of whiskey lovers.

Yellow Spot, originally a staple in the Spot range, was relaunched in 2012, reviving its legacy after it ceased bottling in the late 1950s, and reintroducing its 12-year-old richness to a new generation. The renaissance of Yellow Spot is a tribute to the art of whiskey making and the enduring legacy of the Mitchell family. It is a 12-year-old single pot still whiskey, a style unique to Ireland, known for its full-bodied and complex character. The whiskey is matured in a triumvirate of cask types: American bourbon barrels, Spanish sherry butts, and Spanish Malaga casks. This trinity of casks imparts a distinctive richness and depth to Yellow Spot, making it a standout in the world of premium whiskeys.

On the nose, Yellow Spot greets you with a mélange of sweet honey, ripe fruits, and a hint of peppery spice. It’s an inviting prelude to a palate that bursts with flavours of creamy vanilla, toasted oak, and a medley of tropical fruits, complemented by the nuttiness and subtle sweetness imparted by the sherry and Malaga casks. The finish is long, smooth, and slightly sweet, leaving a lingering warmth that beckons another sip.

The meticulous aging process of Yellow Spot, involving American bourbon barrels, Spanish sherry butts, and Spanish Malaga casks, is a masterclass in flavour development. This careful cask selection is key to its rich, layered complexity, making it a standout expression in the Spot range.

Yellow Spot is a versatile whiskey that can be enjoyed in various ways. Neat or with a drop of water, it reveals its layers of complexity and depth, making for a truly indulgent sipping experience. For pairing, Yellow Spot’s rich and fruity profile complements a range of foods. It pairs exceptionally well with mature cheeses, bringing out the whiskey’s nutty and sweet characteristics. It also harmonises beautifully with dark chocolate, creating a luxurious combination of flavours that enhances the whiskey’s depth.

The revival of Yellow Spot is not just the return of a whiskey but the rekindling of a legacy. It offers a glimpse into the past, a taste of the golden era of Irish whiskey, and a promise of its bright future.

Red Spot: A Testament to Time and Tradition

Red Spot, a distinguished member of the Spot Whiskey family, stands as a remarkable example of the artistry of Irish whiskey maturation. With a history that harks back to the golden age of Dublin whiskey, Red Spot’s 15-year maturation journey is a story of patience, craftsmanship, and the pursuit of perfection. Red Spot’s return after over 50 years represents a significant moment in Irish whiskey history, reviving a recipe that dates back to the golden era of Irish whiskey in the early 20th century.

Red Spot made a triumphant return to the whiskey world in November 2018, resurrecting a beloved recipe that had been absent for 50 years, and rekindling the 15-year-old’s fiery charm. The whiskey’s revival after years of absence has been met with enthusiasm and acclaim, rekindling the spirit of a bygone era. The 15-year maturation process involves a meticulous selection of casks, each contributing uniquely to the whiskey’s character. Red Spot is aged in a combination of American bourbon barrels, Spanish sherry butts, and Sicilian Marsala wine casks. This trinity of wood influences weaves a complex tapestry of flavours and aromas, making Red Spot a truly exquisite whiskey.

Upon nosing Red Spot, one is greeted with a rich bouquet of sweet fruits, aromatic spices, and a hint of toasted wood. The first sip reveals a symphony of flavours: ripe berries and stewed fruits, balanced with a subtle spiciness and the sweet undertones of Marsala. The palate is further enriched with notes of dark chocolate, vanilla, and a touch of oak, leading to a finish that is both long and satisfyingly complex.

Red Spot’s robust and layered profile makes it an ideal whiskey for sipping neat or with a splash of water, which can help to unfold its intricate flavours. It pairs exceptionally well with rich, flavourful foods such as grilled meats, aged cheeses, or a luxurious dark chocolate dessert. The whiskey’s depth and complexity also make it a superb choice for crafting high-end whiskey cocktails, where its distinctive character can shine through.

In every glass of Red Spot, one savours not just a whiskey, but a legacy. It’s a celebration of time-honoured traditions, a journey through the rich tapestry of Irish whiskey history, and a testament to the art of maturation. Red Spot is more than a drink; it’s an experience, a story told in every sip.

Blue Spot: A Vibrant Chapter in Irish Whiskey Heritage

Blue Spot, a dynamic and vibrant member of the revered Spot Whiskey family, stands out for its relatively shorter but intensely flavourful 7-year maturation period. In November 2020, Blue Spot rejoined its family after a 56-year hiatus, bringing back the 7-year-old’s spirited profile and adding a new dimension to the Spot range. Blue Spot’s reintroduction brings back a piece of whiskey history, once again showcasing the diversity and craftsmanship of the Mitchell family.

The 7-year maturation of Blue Spot is significant as it strikes a delicate balance between retaining the lively, fresh qualities of the spirit and allowing enough time for the development of depth and complexity. Matured in a combination of American bourbon barrels, Spanish sherry butts, and Portuguese Madeira casks, Blue Spot is a testament to the art of cask selection and blending. This unique cask combination imparts a rich tapestry of flavours, setting Blue Spot apart from its longer-aged siblings.

Upon tasting, Blue Spot immediately distinguishes itself with a vibrant burst of fruitiness and a lively spice kick, a nod to its youthful spirit. The nose is an inviting mix of citrus fruits, sweet vanilla, and a hint of oak. The palate is where Blue Spot truly shines, offering a robust and full-bodied experience. Flavours of ripe bananas, toasted nuts, and caramel are beautifully intertwined with spicy notes of cinnamon and black pepper. The Madeira cask influence adds a subtle wine-like sweetness and a rich, creamy texture, culminating in a finish that is both long and satisfyingly warm.

Blue Spot, reintroduced to the modern whiskey audience, represents a bold step in the Spot range’s evolution. Its reintroduction brings a fresh, vibrant perspective to the lineup, showcasing the potential of shorter maturation periods in crafting full-bodied, flavourful whiskeys

In comparison to its older siblings, Blue Spot’s flavour profile is more upfront and bold, with a pronounced fruitiness and spiciness. While Green, Yellow, and Red Spots offer more nuanced and mellowed characteristics typical of longer-aged whiskeys, Blue Spot delivers an immediate impact, showcasing the vibrant potential of a 7-year maturation.

Blue Spot is best enjoyed neat or with a small amount of water to fully appreciate its complex character. Its bold flavours also make it an excellent choice for whiskey-based cocktails that require a robust and flavourful spirit. Blue Spot is not just a whiskey; it’s a celebration of the diversity and richness of Irish whiskey, a delightful expression that complements and contrasts its more mature counterparts in the Spot family.

Gold Spot: The Gleaming New Addition to the Spot Whiskey Family

Gold Spot, the latest addition to the illustrious Spot Whiskey range, marks a new chapter in the story of one of Ireland’s most cherished whiskey families. The introduction of Gold Spot is a nod to the evolving tastes and preferences of modern whiskey enthusiasts, offering a unique expression that bridges the gap between tradition and contemporary whiskey craftsmanship.

The most recent addition, Gold Spot, was unveiled in June 2022, marking the 135th year of Spot Whiskey releases by Mitchell & Son with a blend matured in an array of casks, showcasing innovation in the storied line. The introduction of Gold Spot to the Spot family is a nod to the evolving tastes of whiskey aficionados and a tribute to the Mitchells’ wine heritage. Its creation, influenced by the desire to explore new maturation frontiers, signifies the range’s commitment to innovation while staying true to its roots.

Crafted with the same meticulous attention to detail that defines the Spot range, Gold Spot is a blend of exceptional Irish pot still whiskeys. It is matured in a combination of American oak, sherry casks, and Bordeaux wine barrels, a selection that imparts a unique and complex character to this exquisite whiskey. The use of Bordeaux casks is a nod to the Mitchell family’s historic wine importation business, adding a layer of depth and a touch of innovation to the Gold Spot profile.

On the nose, Gold Spot immediately captivates with its rich and inviting aromas. It offers a symphony of ripe stone fruits, honeyed sweetness, and a subtle hint of spicy oak. As you take a sip, the palate unfolds with a luxurious texture, revealing layers of caramelised orchard fruits, toasted almonds, and a delicate balance of sweet and spicy notes. The influence of the Bordeaux casks is evident in the subtle wine-like qualities that weave through the whiskey, adding a refined elegance to its profile.

The finish of Gold Spot is as impressive as its introduction, long and lingering, with a velvety smoothness that leaves a lasting impression. The complexity of flavours and the harmony between the traditional pot still spiciness and the nuanced sweetness make Gold Spot a truly remarkable whiskey.

Gold Spot stands out not only for its exceptional quality but also for its ability to bridge the gap between tradition and innovation. It is a whiskey that will appeal to both long-time fans of the Spot range and those new to the world of Irish whiskey. Whether enjoyed neat, with a splash of water, or as the base for a sophisticated cocktail, Gold Spot is a shining example of the artistry and craftsmanship that define the Spot Whiskey family.

Conclusion: The Bright Future of Spot Whiskies and Their Global Representation of Irish Whiskey

As we look towards the future, the Spot Whiskies stand not just as a testament to the rich heritage of Irish whiskey but also as a beacon for its potential on the global stage. The Spot family – Green, Yellow, Red, Blue, and Gold – each with its unique character and story, continues to captivate whiskey enthusiasts around the world, embodying the spirit of innovation and tradition that is synonymous with Irish whiskey.

The future of Spot Whiskies is as vibrant and promising as their flavours. With a legacy deeply rooted in Dublin’s history and a continuous pursuit of excellence, these whiskeys are poised to further their reach and influence. The recent revival of some of the Spot expressions, coupled with the introduction of new variants, indicates a commitment to both honouring the past and embracing the future. This balance of tradition and innovation is what sets Spot Whiskies apart and will continue to drive their success and popularity.

On the world stage, Spot Whiskies represent the essence of Irish whiskey – its complexity, its versatility, and its rich heritage. They stand as ambassadors of Ireland’s distilling history, showcasing the craftsmanship and unique qualities of Irish pot still whiskey. In a market that is increasingly appreciating the nuances of premium spirits, Spot Whiskies offer a range of experiences that appeal to both the whiskey connoisseur and the curious newcomer.

Moreover, the story of Spot Whiskies is one that resonates globally. It speaks of a family’s dedication, the revival of forgotten treasures, and the joy of discovery in each sip. As Irish whiskey continues to enjoy a renaissance on the world stage, Spot Whiskies will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping its future and introducing more people to the rich tapestry of flavours that Irish whiskey has to offer.

In conclusion, the journey of Spot Whiskies is far from complete. With each bottle, they weave a new chapter in the story of Irish whiskey, inviting whiskey lovers around the world to be a part of their continuing legacy. As they move forward, Spot Whiskies not only carry with them a history of excellence but also the promise of exciting possibilities in the world of Irish whiskey.

As we look to the future of Spot Whiskies, what are your expectations or hopes for this beloved range? Is there a particular variant you’re eager to try or see developed? What is your personal story with Irish whiskey? Have the Spot Whiskies played a role in your journey of discovering the rich tapestry of whiskey flavours?