Whiskey Review/Tasting: Redbreast 12 Cask Strength

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Ireland
Type: Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey
Distillation and Maturation Process: Triple distilled in traditional copper pot stills, matured for no less than 12 years in the finest oak casks, including sherry and ex-bourbon casks.
Age Statement: 12 years
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the emphasis on sherry and bourbon casks suggests a rich, golden hue.
Bottle Design and ABV: The ABV varies as it is bottled in batches at cask strength, with the reviewed batch at 58.6%. The bottle design specifics are not mentioned, but it carries batch information (e.g., B1/12 from 2012).

Balance of Flavors: A complex balance of fruit, spices, vanilla sweetness, toasted oak, and barley.
Unique Characteristics: Noted for its fruit explosion aroma, including figs, ripe banana, sultana, red apple, and lime, combined with pot still spices, vanilla, and pine from the casks. The taste evolves from dried fruit and citrus to a rich complexity of spices and fruits, ending with a sweet butterscotch to barley finish.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, its unique profile is highlighted by the traditional Irish pot still method, offering a distinct, full, and complex flavor.

Name Origin: The name "Redbreast" is inspired by the Robin, a bird that sings through the long Irish winters, symbolizing the warmth and joy the whiskey brings during dark times.
Production Insights: Emphasizes the traditional and uncompromising dedication to quality, showcasing the quintessential style of Irish whiskey through its single pot still process.

Irish Tradition: Single pot still whiskey is unique to Ireland, particularly to the Middleton distillery in Cork, representing the quintessential style of Irish whiskey. The process involves a mash of malted and unmalted barley, highlighting the cultural heritage and craftsmanship of Irish whiskey making.

Horst Luening's Opinion: Describes the whiskey as having a "wonderful" complexity and creamy mouthfeel, with a recommendation to dilute it to drinking strength to fully appreciate its flavors and aromas.
Quote: "An uncompromising dedication to quality and the enduring tradition of Irish pot still whiskey is the hallmark of Redbreast."

Redbreast 12 Cask Strength is a single pot still Irish whiskey, matured for 12 years in oak casks, including sherry and ex-bourbon.
It features a complex flavor profile with a fruit explosion aroma, pot still spices, and a rich finish.
The whiskey's name and production process pay homage to Irish traditions and the cultural significance of single pot still whiskey.
Expert opinion suggests diluting the whiskey to fully experience its flavors and aromas, highlighting its quality and craftsmanship.

For Connoisseurs: The complexity and traditional production method make it a must-try for whiskey aficionados seeking an authentic Irish pot still experience.
For Adventurous Drinkers: Those looking to explore high ABV whiskies will appreciate the cask strength aspect and the transformative effect of dilution on its flavor profile.
For Fans of Irish Whiskey: Individuals with a preference for the smooth, complex flavors characteristic of Irish whiskey will find Redbreast 12 Cask Strength a remarkable and satisfying choice.