Redbreast Whiskey – a shining example of Ireland’s distilling prowess, rich heritage and exceptional heritage. Since its foundation, this beloved brand has captivated whiskey enthusiasts with its complex flavors and commitment to quality. In its decades-spanning career, Redbreast Whiskey has debuted various expressions, including 12-Year-Old, 15-Year-Old, & Lustau Editions. Each one of these expressions tells a story of patience and passion, making them a staple in bars and homes around the world. Now, the legacy of this brand takes a monumental step forward with the introduction of its first-ever Redbreast Whiskey 18-Year-Old Expression.
Yes, you heard it right!
[Update: September 12, 2024] The Redbreast Whiskey 18-Year-Old Expression is out! This new release marks a significant milestone for the brand, as it is the first permanent addition to its portfolio in four years. It is crafted with the same dedication and precision as earlier Redbreast expressions. Aged in a combination of both ex-bourbon and sherry casks, this whiskey showcases the rich influence of creamy sherry, infusing it with a distinctive flavor profile that’s both bold and nuanced. Altogether, this new release is promising a great drinking experience for both enthusiasts and beginners alike.
As a whiskey enthusiast, you must be excited about this newly released whiskey, right? We all should be, as it’s been quite some time since we’ve had the chance to indulge in a new whiskey release. Redbreast Whiskey 18-Year-Old Expression seems like a perfect drink to incorporate on October weekends as it perfectly combines classic and modern elements.
Join Royal Batch in this detailed blog post, as we delve deeper into the flavors, aromas, and unique qualities that make Redbreast 18-Year-Old Expression a whiskey you won’t want to miss!
Redbreast Whiskey: A Little Background & Overview of an Iconic Brand!
Before delving into the recently released Redbreast Whiskey expression, let’s take a little background about the brand.
1850s to 1880s: W&A Gilbey Laid the Foundation of Redbreast!
The history of Redbreast whiskey can be traced back to the 1850s. William and Alfred Gilbey founded W&A Gilbey in 1857. W&A Gilbey was a renowned wine and spirits merchant in London, famous for its extensive range of products. In the next few years, W&A Gilbey established itself as an industry leader and opened branches in Edinburgh, Belfast, & Dublin.
1880s to 1930s: W&A Gilbey Made Significant Alliances!
As the year 1887 arrived, W&A Gilbey unlocked its full potential by marketing John Jameson & Son’s pure and unblended Irish whiskey. At the end of the century, this leading wine and spirits merchant also held a stock of over 700,000 gallons of Jamerson & Son’s whiskey. As W&A Gilbey got access to several gallons of John Jameson & Son’s Whiskey, they started supplying the bottles directly from their warehouses. In 1903, W&A Gilbey introduced various spirits, including Castle Grand John Jameson, Six Years Old and Ten Years Old. A few years later, “Redbreast John Jameson & Son’s Castle Whiskey 12-Years Old" debuted in August 1912. At that time, this whiskey was among one of the best-selling spirits. The popularity of “Redbreast J.J. Liqueur Whiskey 12-years Old” led some people to mistakenly believe that “Redbreast” was an official nickname for Gilbey’s brand.
1930s to 1980s: The Arrival of a Stauncher Truer Friend!
In 1933, one advertisement read: “Redbreast Liqueur Whiskey at your service. You could not wish for a stauncher truer friend.” For an era like the early 1900s, this advertisement was really creative. However, who would have thought that the manifestation in this advertisement will turn into reality, after a few decades. Certainly, No one! Right? But it did become. In the mid 1960s, Redbreast was being bottled annually, fulfilling the steady demand for the brand.
In 1968, Irish Distillers decided to stop supplying bonded whiskey to merchants like Gilbey’s. Eventually, this put the future of Redbreast whiskey in jeopardy since Irish Distillers controlled all the whiskey distilleries in Ireland at that time. However, after Gilbey’s request to continue the partnership, Irish Distillers agreed to keep supplying them with whiskey needed to make Redbreast. In 1971, Irish Distillers shut down all its distilleries in Dublin. This led to W&A Gilbey to move their production for Redbreast Whiskey from Dublin to County Cork.
After years of hardships, Gilbey stopped making Redbreast Whiskey in 1985. Following year, they sold the brand to Irish Distillers.
1980s – 2010s: The Relaunch of Redbreast
After buying Redbreast from W&A Gilbey, Irish Distillers Limited relaunched the iconic whiskey brand in 1919. Irish Distillers Limited wanted this re-introduction of Redbreast Whiskey to be perfect, grand, and epic. This is why they execute a thorough makeover of the whiskey. The maturation process in the finest sherry and bourbon casks made the 12-year-old Expression a perfect spirit. For their next blend, Irish Distillers Limited tried to experiment with the Redbreast whiskey by making it a pot-still and grain whiskey blend. However, this didn’t work in their favor. In 2005, the seminal Redbreast 15 was released, and the whiskey brand got its lost glory days back as an instant hit. Together
2010s – Current
In the 2010s, Redbreast whiskey maintained its reputation as a premier Irish whiskey brand. The launch of Redbreast Whiskey 12 Cask Strength was a moderate success, while the release of Redbreast 21 was like a blockbuster movie upcoming. In 2015, Redbreast Mano a Lamh was the first whiskey of the brand to be matured solely in Sherry butts. Following years, the iconic whiskey brand releases several blends.
2016: Redbreast Lustau Sherry Finish Edition
2018: Redbreast Dream Cask
2019: Redbreast Dream Cask Pedro Ximenez Edition
2024: Redbreast 18-Year-Old Whiskey Expression
Today, Redbreast is among the most awarded whiskies in the world. It perfectly represents the signature Redbreast sherry-style spirit. Moreover, it is the best-selling pot still whiskey in the world.
Redbreast Whiskey 18-Year-Old Expression: Channeling the Classic Flavor of the Brand!
It’s crazy to think that Redbreast 18-Year-Old is the first permanent release of the brand in four years. This exquisite whiskey elevates the classic Redbreast profile by incorporating cream sherry casks, resulting in a unique and delightful twist.
Matured under the expert guidance of our Master Blender, the 18-year-old is crafted from a carefully selected blend of ex-bourbon barrels and casks seasoned with the finest oloroso sherry, cream sherry, and ruby port. This meticulous aging process enhances the character of Redbreast’s Single Pot Still Whiskey, taking it to new heights.
The result is a whiskey bursting with enticing aromas of berry fruits, complemented by rich hazelnut chocolate notes and the sweetness of caramelized stone fruits. Each sip beautifully harmonizes the different enticing flavors with the signature Redbreast taste, showcasing its complexity and depth.
Tasting Notes of Redbreast Whiskey 18-Year-Old Expression
If you’re on the hunt for a whiskey that perfectly balances tradition and innovation, look no further than the Redbreast 18-Year-Old Expression. This release introduces a tantalizing addition of cream sherry casks from the renowned Antonio Páez Lobato cooperage, which is a rare treat for Redbreast fans. The combination of these unique casks with the more traditional profile makes for a tasting experience that’s both fresh and familiar.
Let’s talk about the nose first. It’s an absolute delight! You’re greeted with delectable aromas of ripe blackcurrants and raspberries, perfectly accompanied by sugar-glazed cherries and a hint of dried fig. There’s something indulgent about the hazelnut chocolate tones and caramelized stone fruits, enhanced by warm notes of toasted almonds and cinnamon. It’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket of aromas, with a backdrop of polished oak and worn leather that gives it a sophisticated edge.
When you take a sip, the taste is full-bodied and rounded. The oak tannins play nicely with the decadent sweetness of sun-kissed grapes and autumnal fruits. You’ll also find vibrant spices, like freshly peeled ginger, dancing among the wine-seasoned oak influences, adding layers of dried fruits, dark berries, and orange peel.
And then comes the finish —oh, it’s rich and lasting! The pot still spices, fruit, and oak gradually fade away, leaving behind a beautiful harmony that showcases the whiskey’s complexity.
Overall, the Redbreast 18-Year-Old Expression is a truly wonderful expression that captures the essence of what makes this brand beloved among whiskey enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just starting your whiskey journey, this Expression is sure to impress. Cheers!
Shop Your Favorite Redbreast Whiskey at Royal Batch!
If you’re a fan of Redbreast whiskey, choose Royal Batch to discover the exquisite flavors of this premier brand. As a top online liquor store, Royal Batch offers a range of expressions that cater to every whiskey enthusiast’s palate. We provide ourselves with the finest selections of Redbreast Whiskey, ensuring you can shop your favorites conveniently and securely. Whether you’re looking to elevate your personal collection or searching for the perfect gift for a fellow whiskey lover, our extensive range has something for everyone. Explore our collection now!
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