Waterford Gaia Organic Single Malt

Waterford is the latest venture of Mark Reynier, the former CEO of Bruichladdich in Islay. In 2015, Mark purchased a disused, state-of-the-art Guinness brewery near the South Coast of Ireland. There, inspired by his 40 years’ experience in wine and spirits, he launched a pioneering whisky distillery which would produce limited edition, single malts focused on terroir, transparency and traceability.

Mark brings to single malt whisky the same intellectual drive, methodology and rigour as the greatest winemakers. Waterford has a barley-led approach as the conditions under which the barley grows; the ‘terroir’, has a profound impact on the quality of the liquid and ultimately defines the flavour of Waterford’s whiskies.

All of Waterford's whiskies are made using 100% malted barley and are natural and non-chill filtered with a slow fermentation and unhurried distillation to extract maximum flavours. The maturation takes place half a kilometre from the sea and uses premium quality French and American casks; a combination of first-fill and new oak barrels.

Gaia 1.1

The first organic Irish single malt whiskey from Waterford, Gaia 1.1 is made using 100% organic barley grown on seven different farms in Ireland. It has been matured in a combination of ex-bourbon, virgin American oak, French oak and Vin Doux Naturel wine casks creating a fruity, spicy character.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Honey, melted butter, fresh orange oil and a hint of cranberry.

Palate: Vibrant barley notes, supported by more citrus and fruit, as well as a growing touch of earthy spice.

Finish: Dried peels, cedar, spring blossom and menthol.