Powers Three Swallow Irish Whisky Review.
Powers Three Swallow Irish Whisky Review.
It’s not every day I come across Powers here in Indiana, availability tends to be spotty, which is unfortunate because I’ve always appreciated what they bring to the table. On a recent hunt, I stumbled across a bottle of their Three Swallow release, priced so low I’m convinced it was a mistake. Of course, I didn’t question it. I snatched it up, finally checking this one off my wishlist. This bottling sits a step above the standard Powers Gold Label and brings a more focused, historical nod to the brand’s roots.
Powers Three Swallow is a 100% pot still Irish whiskey, crafted with a combination of malted and unmalted barley. It’s aged in ex-bourbon barrels and, based on industry buzz and other reviews, it likely sees a finishing period in Oloroso sherry casks. That dual maturation gives this whiskey both a classic Irish structure and a gentle richness on top. Bottled at 43.2% ABV, it falls just under what I’d consider an ideal proof point—but more on that later.
Age Statement: N/A.
ABV: 43.2%.
Mash bill: 100% malted and unmalted barley.
Area of Distillation: Ireland.
Appearance: Golden straw.
On the nose:
On the nose:
This whiskey opens with that classic Irish pot still character, rich, sweet barley notes front and center. There's a gentle waxiness in the background, layered with fruity tones like dried figs and cranberries. The sherry cask influence is immediately noticeable, but not overpowering. Hints of ginger chew, a bit of pepper, and some soft vanilla and caramel glide in beneath the fruit. It even gives off a subtle milk chocolate note mingling with the fruit, something I didn’t expect but thoroughly enjoyed. Toward the end, a light hay or dried grass note develops, adding a soft earthy quality.
Taste:
Sweetness carries over first, vanilla and caramel backed by a rounded, dried fruit profile. The sherry finish does a lot of the lifting here, with notes that lean toward overripe fruit but stop just short of going too far. There's a bit of dry hay and oak spice, plus a touch of pepper that keeps it grounded. That waxiness returns on the palate, though more subtle, and it finishes with flavors of shortbread, apple, and toffee. A gentle tartness, like orchard apples with just a touch of skin, shows up late in the sip. It’s smooth, easy-drinking, and unmistakably Irish.
Finish:
The finish is clean and medium in length. There's a lingering sweetness, soft oak, and a whisper of that orchard fruit and pepper. It doesn’t coat the mouth as much as I’d like, but it’s still satisfying and makes for an easy return sip.
Final Thoughts:
Powers Three Swallow is a lovely, everyday Irish whiskey with just enough complexity to make it stand out, especially if you can find it at the right price. While I do wish the ABV was bumped just slightly higher to around 45%, the whiskey still manages to deliver a well-structured and flavorful pour. The Oloroso sherry cask finish does a lot of the heavy lifting, adding warmth and depth without overshadowing the base spirit. At the typical $45–$50 range, it’s a solid B-minus in my book. But the fact I picked it up for $31.99? That makes it a no-brainer. If you’re looking to step up from Powers Gold or dip your toes into pot still Irish whiskey without breaking the bank, this is a fantastic place to start.
Rating: B- (Fairly good).
Cost: $44.99 for 750ml.
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