Redbreast 18 Joins the Esteemed Redbreast Family: A Comprehensive Guide to the Range

The Redbreast brand has long been synonymous with exceptional single pot still Irish whiskey, celebrated for its rich flavors and meticulous craftsmanship. In September 2024, the introduction of Redbreast 18 added a new dimension to this esteemed lineup, bridging the gap between the beloved 15-Year-Old and the venerable 21-Year-Old expressions. This article delves into the unique characteristics of Redbreast 18 and offers an overview of the full Redbreast range, complete with tasting notes to guide both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts.

Redbreast 18: A New Milestone

The unveiling of Redbreast 18 was met with anticipation and excitement among whiskey aficionados. This expression maintains the brand's signature triple-distilled single pot still foundation but introduces a nuanced maturation process. While traditional Redbreast expressions are aged in ex-bourbon and oloroso sherry casks, the 18-Year-Old incorporates additional maturation in cream sherry and ruby port casks. This combination imparts a richer, more complex flavor profile, enhancing the whiskey's depth and character.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: A harmonious blend of blackcurrants, raspberries, and cherries, complemented by undertones of chocolate, caramel, oak, almonds, and cinnamon.

• Palate: Silky and full-bodied, featuring dark fruit flavors intertwined with creamy vanilla, toasted oak, and a hint of spice.

• Finish: Long and satisfying, with lingering notes of sweet fruit and gentle spice.

Exploring the Redbreast Range

The Redbreast portfolio showcases a variety of expressions, each with its unique maturation process and flavor profile.

1. Redbreast 12-Year-Old

Often considered the cornerstone of the Redbreast range, the 12-Year-Old is celebrated for its balance and complexity.

• Nose: Aromas of sweet fruit, toasted oak, and warm spices.

• Palate: Notes of buttery hot-cross buns, dried fruits, baking spices, and spicy oak.

• Finish: Long and complex, with a hint of spice.

2. Redbreast 15-Year-Old

Building upon the 12-Year-Old, the 15-Year-Old offers a richer and more robust experience.

• Nose: Full and rich with a complex yet balanced mix of berry fruits and aromatic oils.

• Palate: Fully round and mellow with the succulence of fleshy fruit combined with spices and toasted wood.

• Finish: Long and sophisticated.

3. Redbreast 21-Year-Old

The 21-Year-Old represents the pinnacle of the Redbreast range, offering unparalleled depth and complexity.

• Nose: Remarkable aroma spanning fresh tropical fruits, nuts, and rich dried fruit.

• Palate: Soft vanilla, toasted oak, and sherry nuttiness with a dusting of spices.

• Finish: Lingers, seemingly forever, to oak and pot still spices and then, the final bow from the barley – where it all began.

4. Redbreast Lustau Edition

A unique expression that showcases the influence of sherry cask maturation.

• Nose: Rich infusion of dark fruits, prunes, dates, and figs with licorice, marzipan, toasted oak, and Redbreast spices.

• Palate: Creamy pot still with Redbreast spices balanced with richness of sherry finish and contribution of fresh Spanish oak.

• Finish: Enduring sherry richness.

5. Redbreast 27-Year-Old

The oldest permanent expression in the range, the 21-Year-Old is matured in a combination of bourbon, sherry, and ruby port casks.

• Nose: A mix of exotic fruits and red berries with fresh herbs, wood spices, and toasted oak.

• Palate: Silky smooth with fleshy fruit and spices balanced with a toasty oak.

• Finish: Rich and lasting with a hint of sweetness.

Conclusion

The addition of Redbreast 18 enriches an already distinguished lineup, offering whiskey enthusiasts a new expression that balances tradition with innovation. Each Redbreast expression provides a unique tasting experience, reflecting the brand's commitment to quality and the art of single pot still whiskey. Whether you're a longtime admirer or new to the Redbreast family, there's a bottle waiting to offer you a taste of Irish whiskey excellence.