Redbreast 12 is a Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey. If you’re not familiar with that term then you’re in luck because I’m about to explain. In a nut shell Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey is whiskey that is created from a mash containing both malted and unmalted barley and then triple distilled in copper pot stills. In Scotland to create their single malts they only use malted barley and the same goes for American single malts and a large amount of the whiskey found around the world. Single Pot Still is a whiskey style that is unique to Ireland and according to Midleton “is regarded as the quintessential style of Irish whiskey”.
For over 200 years this lovely stuff was called Pure Pot Still whiskey, but then in 2010 / 2011 the TTB (the same folks who don’t enforce their own basic Bourbon and Rye labeling requirements) got upset at the use of “Pure” and forced the name be changed to Single Pot Still. The ruling actually happened a few year before that, but it was about 2011 when the new labels started rolling out. Regardless of what it’s called it just means that you’re in store for some tasty tasty whiskey.
Redbreast 12 years Review
Distiller: Irish Distillers (New Midleton)
ABV: 40%
Age: 12 years
Price: $45
EYE
Gold
NOSE
Mmmm, I tell ya, that Single Pot Still character stirs something in me every time I smell it. Rich, sweet and a little oily that wonderful character is accompanied by notes of fruit, vanilla, nuts, spice, citrus and some light sweet, almost floral, notes that drift through on the tail.
PALATE
Warm rich pot still malty goodness followed by notes of fruit, honey, vanilla, spice and citrus with a nutty undertone that ties everything together. I love the flavor of this whiskey almost as much as the aroma.
FINISH
Long slow journey of warm coppery malt, vanilla, spice, fruit and a light bit of wood.
BALANCE, BODY & FEEL
Excellent balance with a rich round body and smooth almost oily texture.
OVERALL
Yum I love Redbreast 12, but that’s also because I love Single Pot Still Irish whiskey. The warm coppery malty flavor and aroma does something for me, it hits me just right. If you’re a fan of Irish whiskey, or just whiskey in general, do yourself a favor and at least try this at some point. I think you’ll be happy that you did.
SCORE: 90/100
