Irish whiskey darling Redbreast is expanding its Iberian range with its third release - the Redbreast Tawny Port Cask Edition.

The new expression was matured in a combination of Bourbon and Oloroso Sherry casks first before some parcel of these whiskies were then recasked into Tawny Port casks from Portugal's Douro Valley for several years. Finally the parcels of whiskies were then blended and again matured together in Tawny Port hogsheads for an additional 14 to 25 months before bottling.

Official Tasting Notes

Aroma

Sweet and warming confectionery notes of buttered pastry accompanied by aromas of caramelised 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.

"Enjoying lunch with the late renowned winemaker Joaquim Anacleto and Gesprove winemaker José Pinheiro overlooking the valley, we were discussing the various wines and spirits that had influenced our whiskeys over the years and tawny Port came up in conversation.

“Having worked with ruby Port previously, we pondered the differences tawny Port holds and subsequently the intriguing flavour profile that it could add to our whiskeys.

“Since then, we have been ageing single pot still whiskey in a small number of tawny Port casks we receive annually from this beautiful, sun-drenched valley and, needless to say, we have been delighted with the results.”

Billy Leighton, Redbreast Master Blender 

“The combination of ageing some of the liquid in tawny Port casks for a longer period and recasking all of the whiskey in tawny Port hogsheads for its final maturation is what makes this expression so special.

“The flavour profile of Redbreast Tawny Port Cask Edition is in keeping with the recognisable Redbreast family DNA, yet provides an exciting twist from another part of the Iberian Peninsula.

“Each subsequent expression in the series will represent a new discovery from this rich region, which to date has greatly influenced the Redbreast style over the course of its history.”

Dave McCabe, Redbreast Blender

The new Redbreast Tawny Port Cask Edition is bottled at 46% ABV and is priced at US$100 per bottle.

Kanpai!

88 Bamboo Editorial Team