Tasting Redbreast 12yo

Been a while since I posted an Irish whiskey tasting notes, and this one has been sitting patiently in the “backlog” queue , and it’s time. On my visit to London this week, I did buy the Cask Strength version of this whiskey, and I shall be posting my notes about that one soon…

This wee dram is as we call it “Pot still” or “Pure pot still” ,  meaning that we’re dealing with malted and non malted barley fermentation here.. It’s not really clear by law what should be called “pure” and what can not be called this way, so it’s really a rather tricky term. I suggest you read Tim’s  (of the TWE) very good post about all this and his Middleton trip notes, which might shed more light on this term.It’s really a mess  to describe.  It is a vatting of ex-Sherry and ex-Bourbon casks (first fill), about 1/3 sherry and the rest Bourbon.

Let’s get on with the tasting notes. shall we?

Redbreast 12 yo , 40% ABV , £39

Nose: Sweet and spicy Very rich thick vanilla, golden syrup. Some rye notes too and  Tangerines. A really different and interesting nose on this one. Full of character, and a great specimen this is.
Palate: Spicy heaven then off to sweeter sherry. Down to cocoa  powder. Nuts and toffee, some cake too, the spongy type, with hints of citrus inside.
Finish: Bitter sweet,Double espresso with toffee going a long way.

Bottom line:

This is perhaps the best Irish whisky you can get your hands on today. most definitely at that price range (There are some others but at three times or more the price of this one). It’s really unique, full of character, a lovely nose and palate, with power, finesse and roundness. Highly recommended at that price, offers amazing bang for your buck ratio.

If you like whisk(e)y, this wee dram should be on your whiskey shelf.

Score: 89/100

Keep your eyes peeled for a comparison of this one and the Cask Strength version now also available in the coming weeks.