Last Updated on: 26th April 2024, 05:40 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
In this post, I share the best way to drink Redbreast 12, a single-pot still Irish whiskey renowned for its smoothness and depth.
Written by: J Highland
Key Takeaways
- Redbreast 12 is best appreciated neat according to whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
- A few drops of water can be added to enhance flavors, but the whiskey is already smooth.
- The Glencairn glass is recommended for its aroma-enhancing shape.
- The whiskey has a rich flavor profile with vanilla, caramel, ginger, and orange peel.
- It pairs well with hazelnuts, white chocolate, and roasted root vegetables.
- Proper storage is essential for maintaining quality.
- Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Best Way to Drink Redbreast 12
“Straight from the bottle’s neck, Redbreast 12 is best appreciated neat. This whiskey flows smoothly, offering a rich blend of flavors without causing a stir. “, states whiskey expert, Neil Coleman.
Although you might consider adding a few droplets of water, there’s rarely a need.
Its smoothness is legendary, making it an effortless sip that won’t challenge your palate with heat.
Redbreast is the whiskey that changed my perception of Irish Whiskey and one I wholeheartedly recommend.
- Related: Best Irish Whiskey Selections under $50
- Learn more: Redbreast 12 Website
Adding Water: Proceed with Care
While the Redbreast 12 profile is near perfect on its own, should you find it a tad warm – which would be surprising given its smooth character – a splash of water can be introduced.
But tread lightly and add one drop at a time.
Choosing the Right Glass
The Glencairn glass is the premier choice for sipping Redbreast 12.
Its tulip shape concentrates the whiskey’s aromas, ensuring a richer sipping experience.
The design allows for easy swirling, unlocking Redbreast 12’s full spectrum of flavors.
Additionally, its clarity showcases the whiskey’s inviting hue.
In short, to truly appreciate Redbreast 12, the Glencairn is unparalleled.
Flavor Profile
The nose presents rich vanilla, caramel, ginger, and a hint of orange peel.
Redbreast boasts a surprisingly creamy, chewable texture despite its low 80-proof (40% ABV) bottling.
Flavors feature upfront ripe fruit, citrus hints, sherry wine, and oak.
The finish is long, delivering satisfying warmth, baking spice, and dried fruit.
Cocktails and Redbreast 12
While Redbreast 12 stands as a gem for sipping neat, it might not be the top choice for cocktail enthusiasts.
Its rich and nuanced profile deserves to be appreciated without mixers.
If you’re keen on crafting Irish whiskey cocktails or a comforting Irish coffee, I’d steer you towards Jameson Whiskey.
Produced at the same distillery as Redbreast, Jameson presents a more adaptable and budget-friendly option for mixology.
Its versatile character blends smoothly with Coke, ginger ale, and similar mixers.
Plus, with its widespread availability, you won’t have any qualms about shaking it up into a delightful drink.
Pairing with Food
Given its depth, Redbreast 12 pairs harmoniously with a spectrum of foods:
- Hazelnuts: Their rich taste mirrors Redbreast 12’s nutty hints.
- White Chocolate: Enhancing its smooth and milky undertones.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: The charred edges highlight the whiskey’s natural sweet character.
Preserving Your Bottle
To retain its essence:
- Store it upright to keep the cork in good condition.
- Avoid direct sunlight.
- Ensure ambient, consistent storage temperatures.
- Sip it while its profile is at its freshest peak.
About Redbreast 12
Aged for 12 years, Redbreast 12 stands as a hallmark in the world of Irish whiskey.
With its seamless blend of creaminess and spice, it’s more than just a drink – it’s an experience.
This whiskey will not only introduce you to the Redbreast range of whiskeys but will also redefine your expectations of Irish whiskey altogether.