Review: Redbreast Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey 18 Years Old
Review: Redbreast Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey 18 Years Old
Redbreast added a 21-year-old to its core, age-stated range in 2013 and followed that lofty offering with an even more luxe 27-year-old in 2020, leaving most cost-conscious fans of the brand (who like numbers on their bottles) with only the entry-level 12-year-old and increasingly expensive 15-year-old expressions to choose from. In September, Redbreast closed that yawning price gap in the lineup with a new addition boasting an age statement that should surprise exactly no one, at 18 years of age. While this might seem like a small buildout of Redbreast’s core range, it’s anything but.
Redbreast 18 Years Old is aged in a mix of ex-bourbon and sherry casks like the rest of the lineup, but this new expression reportedly relies on mostly first-fill oloroso for the sherry component while also sporting whiskeys aged in casks that previously held cream sherry, a first for the brand. Also notable is the addition of whiskey aged in Ruby Port, a component that was until now used exclusively in the top-of-the-line 27-year-old and occasionally in the even rarer Dream Cask. Let’s check it out.
The nose is rich and expressive and clearly inspired by those newer cask types. Top notes of strawberry shortcake, sugared almonds, and black cherry are airy but still decadent, acquiring an almost creamy texture with time in the glass. The aroma is elevated further by undertones of vanilla bean and crème brulee with fresh berries. A hint of peppery pot still spice adds some energy to an otherwise silky and dessert-filled experience that is unlike any other Redbreast I’ve encountered. The palate follows a similar theme, lush and syrupy initially with cherry cordial and blackberry jam, veering almost too far into the dessert dram lane. Things course correct however on the midpalate with more traditional Redbreast notes of white pepper, breakfast cereal, banana pudding, and candy apple before finding remarkable harmony on a long, warm finish accented with ripe red berries, vanilla cream, and candied ginger. Truly impressive. Without having sampled the 27-year-old, I have to say this is my favorite Redbreast to date.
92 proof.
A / $250 [BUY IT NOW FROM FROOTBAT]
Redbreast Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey 18 Years Old
$250
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