First Impressions
Yellow Spot 12 — the revived Spot whiskey. Mitchell & Son's colour-coded system dates back to Dublin's bonding era: Blue Spot (7yr), Green Spot (10yr), Yellow Spot (12yr), Red Spot (15yr). All were discontinued mid-20th century except Green Spot. Yellow Spot was brought back in 2012.
The Triple Cask
Triple-distilled single pot still at Midleton. The distinctive triple cask maturation: American bourbon barrels, Spanish sherry butts, and rare Spanish Malaga casks. The Malaga cask is a unique and unusual choice in Irish whiskey, adding rich dried-fruit sweetness that sets Yellow Spot apart from its Green Spot sibling. Non-chill filtered at 46%.
Tasting
Honey and cinnamon nose with raisins. Creamy palate of ripe peach, baked custard, and vanilla with black pepper. The Malaga cask adds dried-fruit richness. The finish is long and warming with marzipan and dried apricot.
The Verdict
Yellow Spot 12 earns an 8.5 — accessible, beautifully balanced, and an excellent showcase of Midleton pot still character. At £60, the Malaga cask influence sets it apart from Green Spot without overwhelming the spirit. The revival of this Spot whiskey was long overdue. Welcome back.