By Douglas Fraser
Rating: A
Redbreast 21 Year Old
(Credit: Pernod Ricard)
Redbreast Irish Whiskey prides itself on staying true to the traditional pot still whiskey style that has been a signature of Ireland for decades. Using copper pot stills, all Redbreast whiskey is distilled from a wort of malted and unmalted barley three times to perfection, allowing its elegance to excel. Within the brand, Redbreast 21 is one of the most awarded whiskeys in the world; rightfully so.
The Whiskey
Redbreast 21 is a blend of whiskeys matured up to 25 years, hand-selected by Master Blender Billy Leighton. Bottled at a nice 46% ABV, this whiskey is matured in ex-sherry and ex-bourbon casks. The result is almost a near masterpiece of Irish whiskey that can be attributed to its superb cask selection.
This is one of the best Irish whiskeys I have ever tasted. Redbreast 21 full of depth and complexity from nose through the finish. The box is made of wood with the story of the whiskey inscribed upon it. Although you can read about it, the tasting of this wonderful dram tells its own story.
A pour has a rich auburn look. The nose is full of complexity with rich aromas of gingerbread spice, mahogany wood, sherry, Christmas cake, caramel and other subtle baking spices. The palate intensifies with full-bodied notes of oak spice up front, then fades giving way to dried red fruits, rich sherry, cinnamon, all spice, and vanilla. The finish is long with lingering fruity notes, continuing spices, and oak, leaving you fulfilled.
The Price
Redbreast 21 is found in the US for about $300 to $320. Foreign vendors have the whiskey listed for less, but that is before shipping is taken into account.