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Midleton Redbreast Tawny Port Cask Edition

46% ABV - Ireland

Nose: Oranges and sultana raisins, with fresh plums and spices.

Taste: Loads of ripe red fruit, fruit compote, and orange-lemon citrus, with marmalade, pepper, and spices.

Finish: Spices and dried fruits, orange zesty sweetness. Medium-long.

There are at least a couple of other Redbreast releases under the "Iberian Series". I have tried the Lustau Edition, but not the PX Sherry Hogsheads. These bottlings sufficiently differ from the regular Redbreast 12-Year and they are very affordable too, all things being relative.

This one did not last long! I opened it in good company to celebrate my birthday and then lion’s share of it I packed on vacation so that I can enjoy it with my family (coincidentally, I am writing this the day before that vacation..!)

Details: Iberian Series. Batch L316531411.

Tasting Notes (Official): Nose: 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.

Tasted 16 March 2024. (Posted 15 April 2024.)

86/100
Detailed Rating Information...

90+: Fantastic whisky; highly recommended.
My favourite whiskies – I might have more than one bottle if the price is right and the supply is limited! The higher values in this range will reflect a stronger balance and consistency between components.
85-89: Great whisky; recommended.
Whiskies that tick the flavour boxes and you'll likely hear about these from me. An easy decision to order at a bar/restaurant and one to consider buying a bottle of.
80-84: Very good whisky; recommended, but still consider trying before you buy.
Most of these whiskies I was really happy to have the opportunity to taste, but, apart from a dram here and there, I don’t think I would buy a bottle.
75-79: Good whisky; consider trying before you buy.
These are whiskies that I did enjoy drinking, but likely would reach for another bottle or select something different to order.
65-74: Average; consider trying before you buy, but not recommended.
There is nothing that stood out about this whisky and I might be inclined to mix it with soda or in a cocktail, instead of trying to enjoy its own flavours.
50-64: Bad; not recommended.
I didn’t like this and would sooner pass on another opportunity and order a beer instead than have it again… but never say never.


Whisky Bottle