Proper No. Twelve Black Reserve Irish Whiskey by Conor McGregor
40% ABV (80 proof) | Irish whiskey | Minimum 4 years old — Proper No. Twelve Black Reserve is the fourth expression from the Irish whiskey brand founded by Conor McGregor: a blend of single malt and grain whiskeys aged a minimum of four years in first- and second-fill American oak, then finished in heavily charred ex-bourbon barrels. The extra char on the finishing barrels pushes bold bourbon-style character — rich caramel, toasted wood, soft vanilla — into the smooth triple-distilled Irish base. Launched in the US in February 2026. Available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.
Compared with the original Proper No. Twelve (aged 3 years), Black Reserve drinks deeper and sweeter: heartier caramel and toasted-wood notes balanced by gentle vanilla sweetness, with the easy-drinking smoothness the brand is known for. Among Irish whiskeys at this price, it's the one built for bourbon drinkers — familiar caramel-and-oak flavors in an Irish frame. Neat, on ice, or in a highball.
Tasting notes
Nose: rich caramel, toasted wood, soft vanilla. Palate: bold bourbon-style sweetness, caramel, toasted oak. Finish: smooth, lingering vanilla and char. (Per brand/launch notes.)
Why buy it from Del Mesa Liquor
- 40% ABV (80 proof)
- Blend of single malt and grain Irish whiskeys, minimum 4 years old
- Finished in heavily charred ex-bourbon barrels
- From the Proper No. Twelve brand founded by Conor McGregor
- Available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor
How to serve it
On a large cube or in a highball with ginger ale — the caramel depth holds up to ice and mixers.
Frequently asked questions
What is Black Reserve?
The fourth Proper No. Twelve expression: the brand's Irish whiskey blend aged a minimum of 4 years and finished in heavily charred ex-bourbon barrels for extra caramel and toasted-wood character.
How old is it?
A minimum of 4 years — one year older than the standard Proper No. Twelve.
Is Conor McGregor still involved?
McGregor founded the brand; it is now owned by Proximo Spirits.
What proof is it?
80 proof (40% ABV), the same as the original expression.