Following our recent article on Waterford Distillery’s Biodynamic: Cuvée Luna, the distillery’s new flagship whisky, we now bring you news of another exciting release from the Irish producer.
Waterford Distillery has announced the release of its latest whisky in the Heritage barley series: Heritage: Goldthorpe. This new single malt is part of a limited run of just 4,000 bottles and marks the revival of the Goldthorpe barley variety, which has not been used in drinks production for over a century.
The release forms part of Waterford’s ongoing exploration into rare and lost barley varieties, combined with Ireland’s unique terroirs, aiming to bring more depth and complexity to their whisky offerings. Goldthorpe barley, first discovered in 1889, had long disappeared from use, replaced by more modern, high-yield varieties. Waterford, in collaboration with Minch Maltings and the Irish Department for Agriculture, spent three years working to regenerate the remaining supply of this barley to bring it back for whisky production.
The whisky is bottled at 50% ABV and offers a distinctive profile matured in a combination of first-fill US Oak, Virgin US Oak, Premium French Oak, and Vin Doux Naturel casks. Tasting notes describe a complex array of flavors, including aromas of lush vegetation, granola, berry compote, and red apple, with a palate rich in orchard fruits, honey, cloves, and dried fruit.
Neil Conway, Head Brewer at Waterford Distillery, noted that the decision to revive this old barley variety came from their ongoing scientific exploration into Irish terroir and a desire to bring unique, historical flavors to the modern whisky market. He stated: “By reviving the 19th-century Goldthorpe barley, we’re not just crafting whisky; we’re reviving a piece of agricultural heritage.”
The Heritage: Goldthorpe bottling is available to purchase from Waterford’s website, priced at approximately €131/$146/£110.
