Redbreast 21 Years

Whiskey Review/Tasting: Redbreast 21 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

  • Origin: Ireland
  • Type: Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey
  • Distillation: Triple distilled
  • Maturation: Matured in oak casks for not less than 21 years, including sherry casks and ex-bourbon casks.
  • Age Statement: 21 years
  • ABV: 46%
  • Filtration: Non-chill filtered
  • Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the emphasis on oak casks suggests a rich color.
  • Bottle Design: The label mentions the whiskey's unique characteristics and dedication to quality. The back label provides tasting notes and a nod to the whiskey's barley origin.

Whisky Flavor Profile

  • Initial Flavor: Big note of vanilla and a very big fruitiness, especially tropical fruits.
  • Complexity: More complex with a significant oak influence due to the long maturation period.
  • Tasting Notes: Soft vanilla, toasted oak, sherry nuttiness, pot still spices, luscious fleshy fruit notes, and a creamy mouthfeel. The finish is long, with oak and pot still spices dominating.
  • Comparison: Spans halfway to old Scottish whiskies but retains the aromatic note typical of Irish whiskies, with fruitiness combined with vanilla and caramel.

Whisky Storytelling

  • Anecdotes: Horst Luening, the mastertaster, received the bottle from a distributor after it was nearly emptied during tastings, highlighting its rarity and demand.
  • Production Insights: Emphasizes the long maturation period and its impact on flavor, suggesting a greater cask influence over the distillery character.

Cultural or Geographical Significance

  • Irish Pot Still Tradition: Redbreast 21 years exemplifies the tradition of Irish pot still whiskey, with its triple distillation and long maturation in oak casks.
  • Historical Context: Introduced in 2013, it's a relatively new addition to the Redbreast range, yet it carries forward the legacy of one of Ireland's most celebrated whiskey brands.

Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes

  • "It's rare and expensive... supplies are very, very short."
  • "A wonderfully matured, very old Irish whisky."
  • "The 21 years old is my favorite of course it has so much more of intensity of complexity."

Summary

  • Redbreast 21 years is a single pot still Irish whiskey, triple distilled and matured in oak casks for over 21 years.
  • It features a complex flavor profile with notes of vanilla, tropical fruits, toasted oak, sherry nuttiness, and pot still spices.
  • Introduced in 2013, it's celebrated for its quality and dedication to the Irish pot still tradition.
  • Horst Luening praises its complexity and considers it his favorite in the Redbreast range.
  • The whiskey is rare and expensive, with limited availability.

Recommendations for Different User Profiles

  • Whiskey Connoisseurs: With its complexity and depth, Redbreast 21 years is ideal for experienced whiskey drinkers seeking a premium, nuanced experience.
  • Irish Whiskey Enthusiasts: Those with a particular interest in the tradition of Irish whiskey will appreciate the craftsmanship and heritage embodied in this bottle.
  • Special Occasion Sippers: Given its rarity and price point, it's a perfect choice for celebrating significant milestones or as a gift for a discerning whiskey lover.