Keeper’s Heart Whiskey is preparing for the highly anticipated release of its limited-edition 21-Year-Old Irish Single Malt this October, showcasing its dedication to merging Irish and American whiskey-making traditions. Master Distiller Brian Nation, in an interview with Forbes, highlighted the brand’s goal of blending time-honored whiskey craftsmanship with innovative finishing techniques.
“The ambition with these releases is to demonstrate how different finishing barrels can enhance an already exceptional single malt whiskey,” Nation explained. “The finishing barrel enriches the whiskey without detracting from the core malt whiskey DNA. This first release is truly exciting for us.”
Amid a general slowdown in whiskey sales, single malt whiskey is defying the trend, with the global market expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.89% from 2024 to 2029, expanding from $3.164 billion in 2022 to $5.043 billion by 2029.
The 21-Year-Old Irish Single Malt, distilled in 2001 at the renowned Old Cooley Distillery, is the first in a series of releases, each featuring a distinct barrel finish. This particular expression was finished in Tokaji barrels, a rare and unique choice that adds complexity to its flavor profile.
Nation elaborated on the brand’s fusion of traditions: “We’re producing American whiskey using the timeless Irish method of triple copper pot distillation. This allows us to highlight the profound influence of this style on the final whiskey.”
At Keeper’s Heart’s Minneapolis distillery, they craft an American pot still whiskey—triple distilled using a classic Irish mash bill of malted and unmalted barley, but then matured in virgin American oak barrels, creating a unique crossover of flavors. In addition to this, they’re working on triple pot distilled rye and bourbon, combining quintessential American whiskey styles with Irish distilling techniques.
“The result is unlike anything on the American whiskey market today,” Nation shared.
Compared to Keeper’s Heart’s 10-Year-Old Single Malt, the 21-year-old expression offers a richer, more complex experience. The Tokaji barrel finish introduces notes of toffee, dark chocolate, vanilla, and ripe peaches, adding depth and character.
Nation emphasized that rare releases like this 21-Year-Old Single Malt allow Keeper’s Heart, which was founded in 2019, to make its mark in the luxury spirits market. “When you have an extraordinary whiskey that’s truly rare, it’s exciting to offer consumers a chance to experience how a finishing barrel can elevate it. This Tokaji barrel finish is just the start.”
Keeper’s Heart’s philosophy centers around blending the finest Irish and American whiskey-making traditions. “This release is a nod to our Irish heritage and marks our entry into the luxury whiskey space,” Nation said, hinting at more exclusive releases in the future.
