Redbreast 12 Year Old

Experience

It has felt like forever waiting for this Irish Whiskey to appear on a sale and justify getting a bottle. While on the verge of giving in and paying full price, which I never do it dropped down to the bargain price of £34!

To me, I feel that Redbreast has one of the best branding in the whole world of Whiskey. From the classic art style of the Robin sporting different poses depending on the bottle, to the use of embossed gold letters on the bottle. It beautifully balances tradition while still feeling fresh.

In October 2020 they have given a new twist to the marketing by animating Robin Redbreast in a wonderful stop motion style. You can check out the advert here.

Unfortunately the Redbreast 12 is chill filtered and has a little e150 caramel colouring added to it. I will be reviewing the Cask Strength edition which has resolved these very minor issues.

Nose

From popping the cork to pouring this into my glass, the aroma of malted milk biscuits and tropical fruits flew into the air. The classic shortbread note often found in Irish Whiskey has been dialled up to 11 with the sweet notes swooping around like a bird diving on prey.

Taste

These fruits continued with a delightful rich taste of peaches drenched in thick cream, splashing into notes of warm pineapple and spice at the back of your tongue. With every mouthful the flavours transform in a beautiful harmony swaying between sweet cream soda and rich cherry Bakewell.

The flavour lasts a long time leaving a long warmth of Christmas spices and buttery crumpets.

Value for Money

This really is an phenomenally smooth Whiskey which still holds some complexity in it. This will be a bottle that I always hope to have near to hand and with the price point of around £45 it is affordable to replace. If you see it on sale, don’t get one. Get two! From the marketing to the magic in the bottle, this maybe my favourite dram yet.