Redbreast Tawny Port Cask Edition
Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey
46% ABV
$100
Website
What the Distillery Says
Redbreast Tawny Port Cask Edition is a single pot still Irish whiskey initially matured in a combination of bourbon and oloroso sherry casks. The whiskey was then finished in Tawny Port casks for a number of years, adding a new dimension to the profile used in the expression. All of the whiskeys then completed their maturation journey by marrying in freshly seasoned tawny port hogsheads for a final maturation period of 14-25 months.
Nose: Sweet and warming confectionery notes of buttered pastry accompanied by aromas of caramelized almonds with subtle undertones of praline and dried cherry. Scented floral honey with whisperings of a delicate herbal character linger in the background while the seasoned oak and pot still spices accentuate the sweet and full-bodied nature of this wonderfully balanced whiskey.
Taste: Rich and nutty at first with notes of chocolate coated hazelnut and salted caramel, quickly followed with fresh plums and dried fig. The tannins’ soft presence works in harmony with the luscious and creamy texture, evoking notes of orange marmalade with delicate hints of toasted oak.
Finish: Lingering finish which sees the pot still spices and fruits slowly fading, leaving the tawny seasoned oak to have the last word.
What Gary Says
Nose: Rich fruity malt with blood orange, currants, figs, honey, mincemeat pie (without the cloves).
Palate: Creamy and fruity with orange, figs, caramel apple, nutmeg, honey and a hint of clove.
Finish: Moderate in length with dark fruits and baking spices.
Comments: Sometimes you find whiskies where the nose and the palate are quite different; one might even say the nose was misleading. That couldn’t be further from the truth with this dram – the two are very closely aligned. I’m a fan of Redbreast (the 12 year cask strength was the first Irish whiskey I really loved). I’m also a fan of port for finishing or maturation. Maybe the two of those combined had set my expectations too high, as I couldn’t fight off this feeling of disappointment. I mean – this is a really nice and very drinkable dram; just not as special as I had hoped it might be. Although to be fair, it isn’t priced as outrageously as others, so all in all, it balances out.