The production of Yellow Spot whiskey is a testament to the meticulous artistry and skill of the distillers at the Midleton Distillery. This distillery, located in the heart of Ireland's whiskey country, is renowned for its commitment to traditional methods while also embracing innovation.
The process of making Yellow Spot whiskey begins with carefully selected grains, including malted and unmalted barley. These grains are milled and mixed with hot water to extract the sugars needed for fermentation. The resulting liquid, known as “wort,” is then transferred to fermentation vessels.
During fermentation, yeast is added to the wort, which converts the sugars into alcohol. This process typically takes around two to three days, and the resulting liquid, known as “wash,” contains a low alcohol content.
The wash is then distilled in traditional copper pot stills, which are known for their ability to produce a rich and flavorful spirit. The distillation process involves heating the wash, capturing the alcohol vapor, and condensing it back into liquid form. This distillate, known as “new make spirit,” undergoes multiple rounds of distillation to ensure purity and consistency.
After distillation, the new make spirit is transferred to oak casks for maturation. Yellow Spot whiskey is predominantly aged in ex-bourbon casks, which impart vanilla and caramel notes, as well as ex-sherry casks, which add rich fruity flavors and a hint of spice. The whiskey is matured for a minimum of 12 years, allowing it to develop complexity and depth of flavor.
Throughout the aging process, the whiskey interacts with the wood, drawing out flavors and characteristics that contribute to its unique profile. The skilled master distillers at Midleton monitor the maturation process, ensuring that each cask is carefully selected and blended to create the signature taste of Yellow Spot whiskey.
Once the whiskey has reached its desired maturity, it is carefully blended by the master distillers to achieve a harmonious balance of flavors. This process involves combining different casks of varying ages and characteristics to create a consistent and well-rounded whiskey.
The final step in the production of Yellow Spot whiskey is bottling and packaging. Each bottle is filled with the expertly crafted whiskey, and the label proudly bears the iconic Yellow Spot logo, which has become synonymous with quality and heritage.