Irish whiskey has experienced a significant resurgence in popularity over the past decade, with various brands emerging to cater to the growing demand. One such brand that has garnered considerable attention is Proper No. Twelve, a whiskey brand co-founded by none other than Conor McGregor, the renowned Irish mixed martial artist. As the brand’s popularity continues to soar, many whiskey enthusiasts have begun to question the authenticity of Proper No. Twelve, wondering if it truly embodies the spirit of real Irish whiskey. In this article, we will delve into the world of Proper No. Twelve, exploring its history, production process, and the factors that contribute to its Irish whiskey credentials.
A Brief History of Proper No. Twelve
Proper No. Twelve was launched in 2018 by Conor McGregor, along with his business partners, Audie Attar and Ken Austin. The brand’s name is derived from the Dublin 12 postcode, which is the area where McGregor grew up. The whiskey is produced by the Old Bushmills Distillery in Northern Ireland, which is owned by Proximo Spirits, a global spirits company. Proper No. Twelve was created to cater to the growing demand for Irish whiskey, with a focus on producing a smooth, approachable spirit that would appeal to a wide range of palates.
The Production Process
Proper No. Twelve is a blended Irish whiskey, which means that it is a combination of different whiskey styles, including single malt, single grain, and pot still whiskey. The production process involves sourcing whiskey from various distilleries, including the Old Bushmills Distillery, and blending them together to create a unique flavor profile. The whiskey is aged in ex-bourbon barrels, which impart a rich, smooth flavor to the spirit.
Grain Recipe and Fermentation
The grain recipe used in the production of Proper No. Twelve is a combination of malted and unmalted barley, as well as other grains such as corn and wheat. The grains are fermented using a combination of yeast and water, which converts the starches into fermentable sugars. The fermentation process typically takes around 72 hours, after which the liquid is distilled to create a high-proof spirit.
Distillation and Aging
The distillation process involves heating the fermented liquid to separate the spirit from the water and other impurities. The resulting spirit is then aged in ex-bourbon barrels, which impart a rich, smooth flavor to the whiskey. The aging process typically takes around three to five years, although some batches may be aged for longer periods of time.
Irish Whiskey Credentials
So, is Proper No. Twelve real Irish whiskey? To answer this question, we need to examine the factors that contribute to a whiskey’s Irish credentials. According to the Irish Whiskey Act of 1980, Irish whiskey must meet the following criteria:
- Be produced in Ireland, either in the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland
- Be made from a mixture of grains, including malted and unmalted barley
- Be fermented using yeast
- Be distilled to a maximum strength of 94.8% ABV
- Be aged for a minimum of three years in wooden casks
Proper No. Twelve meets all of these criteria, making it a legitimate Irish whiskey. However, some critics have argued that the brand’s use of sourced whiskey from other distilleries undermines its Irish credentials.
The Sourcing Debate
The use of sourced whiskey is a common practice in the spirits industry, where brands purchase whiskey from other distilleries to supplement their own production. However, some critics argue that this practice can lead to a lack of transparency and authenticity in the final product. In the case of Proper No. Twelve, the brand has been open about its use of sourced whiskey, stating that it sources whiskey from various distilleries to create a unique flavor profile.
Transparency and Authenticity
While the use of sourced whiskey may raise some eyebrows, it is worth noting that Proper No. Twelve has been transparent about its production process and sourcing practices. The brand’s website provides detailed information about its production process, including the types of grains used and the aging process. This level of transparency is commendable, especially in an industry where secrecy and mystery often surround the production process.
Tasting Notes and Flavor Profile
So, what does Proper No. Twelve taste like? The flavor profile is smooth and approachable, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and honey. The whiskey is aged in ex-bourbon barrels, which impart a rich, smooth flavor to the spirit. The finish is long and satisfying, with a subtle hint of spice.
Comparison to Other Irish Whiskeys
Proper No. Twelve is often compared to other Irish whiskeys, such as Jameson and Tullamore DEW. While these brands have a longer history and more established reputations, Proper No. Twelve holds its own in terms of flavor and quality. The brand’s use of sourced whiskey and innovative production process sets it apart from other Irish whiskeys, making it a unique and interesting addition to the category.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Proper No. Twelve is indeed real Irish whiskey, meeting all of the criteria set out by the Irish Whiskey Act of 1980. While the brand’s use of sourced whiskey may raise some eyebrows, its transparency and authenticity are commendable. The flavor profile is smooth and approachable, making it an excellent choice for those new to Irish whiskey. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey enthusiast or just starting your journey, Proper No. Twelve is definitely worth trying.
Final Thoughts
As the Irish whiskey category continues to grow and evolve, it’s exciting to see new brands like Proper No. Twelve emerging to challenge the status quo. While some critics may question the brand’s authenticity, its commitment to transparency and quality is undeniable. Whether you’re a fan of Conor McGregor or just looking for a new whiskey to try, Proper No. Twelve is definitely worth considering.
| Category | Proper No. Twelve |
|---|---|
| Production Location | Old Bushmills Distillery, Northern Ireland |
| Grain Recipe | Malted and unmalted barley, corn, and wheat |
| Aging Process | Aged in ex-bourbon barrels for 3-5 years |
| ABV | 40% ABV |
By examining the production process, Irish whiskey credentials, and flavor profile of Proper No. Twelve, we can confidently say that it is indeed real Irish whiskey. Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast or just starting your journey, Proper No. Twelve is definitely worth trying.
What is Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey?
Proper No. Twelve is a brand of Irish whiskey that was founded by mixed martial artist Conor McGregor in 2018. The whiskey is produced by the Old Bushmills Distillery in Northern Ireland and is a blend of single malt and grain whiskey. The brand has gained significant attention and popularity since its launch, thanks in part to McGregor’s celebrity endorsement.
Proper No. Twelve is known for its smooth and approachable flavor profile, making it a great introduction to Irish whiskey for those who are new to the category. The whiskey is aged for a minimum of three years in ex-bourbon barrels, which gives it a rich and velvety texture. The brand offers a range of expressions, including a standard blend, a honey-flavored variant, and a limited-edition single malt.
Is Proper No. Twelve a real Irish whiskey?
Yes, Proper No. Twelve is a real Irish whiskey. Despite some controversy surrounding the brand’s ownership and production, the whiskey itself is made in Ireland using traditional Irish whiskey production methods. The Old Bushmills Distillery, where Proper No. Twelve is produced, is a well-respected and historic distillery that has been producing whiskey for over 400 years.
However, it’s worth noting that the brand’s ownership and marketing have been the subject of some controversy. McGregor sold a majority stake in the brand to Proximo Spirits in 2018, which has led some to question the brand’s authenticity and Irish heritage. Nevertheless, the whiskey itself is made in Ireland and meets all the necessary criteria to be considered a genuine Irish whiskey.
What makes Proper No. Twelve different from other Irish whiskeys?
Proper No. Twelve is different from other Irish whiskeys in several ways. Firstly, the brand’s ownership and marketing are unique in the industry. McGregor’s celebrity endorsement and the brand’s bold marketing campaigns have helped to set it apart from more traditional Irish whiskey brands.
In terms of the whiskey itself, Proper No. Twelve is known for its smooth and approachable flavor profile, which is achieved through a combination of single malt and grain whiskey. The brand’s use of ex-bourbon barrels for aging also gives the whiskey a rich and velvety texture that is distinct from other Irish whiskeys. Additionally, the brand’s range of expressions, including a honey-flavored variant, offers something different from more traditional Irish whiskey brands.
Is Proper No. Twelve a good introduction to Irish whiskey?
Yes, Proper No. Twelve is a great introduction to Irish whiskey. The brand’s smooth and approachable flavor profile makes it an excellent choice for those who are new to Irish whiskey. The whiskey is easy to drink and has a rich, velvety texture that is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Additionally, Proper No. Twelve is a great choice for those who are looking for a more affordable Irish whiskey option. The brand’s standard blend is priced competitively with other Irish whiskey brands, making it an excellent value for the price. Overall, Proper No. Twelve is an excellent choice for anyone looking to try Irish whiskey for the first time.
What is the difference between Proper No. Twelve and other Conor McGregor-endorsed products?
Proper No. Twelve is a unique product that is distinct from other Conor McGregor-endorsed products. While McGregor has endorsed a range of products over the years, including clothing and sports equipment, Proper No. Twelve is the only whiskey brand that he has founded and owned.
In terms of the product itself, Proper No. Twelve is a high-quality Irish whiskey that is made using traditional production methods. The whiskey is aged for a minimum of three years in ex-bourbon barrels, which gives it a rich and velvety texture. This is distinct from other Conor McGregor-endorsed products, which may not have the same level of quality or craftsmanship.
Can I visit the Proper No. Twelve distillery?
Yes, the Old Bushmills Distillery, where Proper No. Twelve is produced, is open to visitors. The distillery is located in Northern Ireland and offers guided tours that give visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the whiskey-making process.
Visitors to the distillery can learn about the history of Irish whiskey production and see firsthand how Proper No. Twelve is made. The distillery also has a gift shop and a tasting room where visitors can sample some of the brand’s expressions. Overall, a visit to the Old Bushmills Distillery is a great way to learn more about Proper No. Twelve and Irish whiskey in general.
Is Proper No. Twelve available in my country?
Proper No. Twelve is widely available in many countries around the world. The brand is distributed by Proximo Spirits, which has a global distribution network that includes many major markets.
However, availability may vary depending on your location. If you’re having trouble finding Proper No. Twelve in stores, you may be able to purchase it online from a retailer that ships to your country. You can also check the brand’s website for a list of authorized distributors and retailers in your area.