Redbreast fans, say hello to the oldest permanent expression in the Redbreast family, at 27 years old! The single pot still Irish whiskey has been triple distilled, and then matured in a brilliant combination of bourbon, sherry and ruby Port casks. As you'd expect, it's a suitably complex whiskey, packed full of spices, dark jammy fruit and mature wood.
The ex-bourbon cask influence emerges first with a layer of earthy vanilla, desiccated coconut and toffee before a tropical fruit note emerge – mango and pineapple mostly – which is to be expected from well-aged Midleton distillate. In the backdrop, there’s ripe orange citrus, candied walnuts and a touch of oloroso sherry sharpness. Stewed plums, figs and ripe red apples add a rich and fruity undertone.
The array of dark and red fruits is beautiful, with black cherries, cranberry juice, blackcurrant compote, prunes and nectarines all present. Old leather, peppermint and a little grapefruit tartness develop among more tropical elements of guava and caramelised banana. Charred red chillies bring an earthy warmth which is complemented by exotic spices and a lick of manuka honey.
The notes from the palate stay for what feels like an age (a very pleasant age). The impressive and long finish has all the complex fruity notes that have defined this dram, as well as nutty antique wood, aromatic nutmeg, a handful of fresh herbs and the slightest hint of wasabi heat.
The vibrancy of those fruit notes are astonishing and the star of the show. Redbreast 27 Year Old is a beauty and does not disappoint.
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