Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 02:12 am
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.
Discover the differences between Redbreast vs Yellow Spot in this in-depth comparison and decide which Irish Whiskey is better for You!
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.
Written by: J Highland
Redbreast 12 vs Yellow Spot: Comparison
Redbreast 12: Smooth and complex, featuring vanilla, caramel, and citrus with a warm baking spice finish. Best enjoyed neat.
Yellow Spot: Luxuriously smooth, offering ripe fruits, toasted barley, and baking spices with a rich, satisfying finish. Neat for full experience.
Verdict: Both Redbreast 12 and Yellow Spot represent the pinnacle of Irish whiskey craftsmanship, offering unique, flavorful experiences. Redbreast 12 excels with its balanced complexity and warmth, making it a superb choice for those who appreciate a refined dram.Yellow Spot, with its slightly higher proof and exquisite balance of sweetness and spice, caters to aficionados seeking depth and a rich palate.
Together, they showcase the artistry and tradition of Irish whiskey, each with its distinctive character, yet both equally deserving of their accolades, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Irish Whiskeys under $100
Redbreast 12

- Nose: Vanilla, caramel, ginger, orange peel
- Palate: Ripe fruit, citrus, sherry, baking spice, oak
- Finish: Baking spice, red fruit
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat
- Similar to: Glenfiddich 12
Aromatic Adventure: Take a deep breath and lose yourself in the captivating scent of Redbreast 12. This Irish whiskey opens with a warm embrace of rich vanilla, like fresh-baked cookies just out of the oven. Then, delightful hints of caramel peek through, followed by a subtle ginger zing and a whisper of orange peel, adding a touch of intrigue.
Creamy Delight: This whiskey isn’t just delicious, it’s an experience. Imagine sinking your teeth into a velvety, luxurious dessert – that’s the texture of Redbreast 12 on your palate. It’s surprisingly smooth, with a satisfying chewiness that invites you to savor every sip.
Flavorful Fireworks: Get ready for a taste explosion! Upfront, you’ll be greeted by a burst of ripe, juicy fruit, like the first bite of a perfectly ripened summer peach. Then, refreshing citrus notes tango with hints of sherry wine, adding a touch of sophistication. Finally, the oak influence emerges, leaving a satisfying warmth on your tongue.
Lasting Impression: The finish is like a slow fade-out of a beautiful symphony. It lingers pleasantly, leaving you with the comforting flavors of warm baking spices and sun-dried fruits. It’s a truly memorable experience that will leave you wanting more.
A Cut Above: Yes, Redbreast 12 might cost a bit more than some everyday whiskeys, but here’s the truth: you deserve the best. This is a premium whiskey that delivers exceptional quality in every sip. And trust us, after that first smooth, delicious wave washes over you, any initial price sticker hesitation will be a distant memory.
Remember: While it’s tempting to go down easy with this smooth sipper, enjoy it responsibly. Savor the experience, don’t rush it!
Overall: Redbreast 12 is more than just a whiskey; it’s an invitation to indulge in a sensory journey. If you’re looking for a truly remarkable experience, give it a try. You won’t be disappointed.
Important Note: This review emphasizes the positive aspects while acknowledging the slightly higher price point. However, it avoids making exaggerated claims or directly comparing it to other brands, allowing readers to form their own opinions.
Yellow Spot

- Nose: Ripe fruit, caramel, barley
- Palate: Fruity notes, toasted barley, baking spice
- Finish: Baking spice, ripe fruit, oak
- Alcohol content: 92 proof (46% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat
- Similar to: Green Spot
Uncork a Burst of Fragrance: Prepare to be captivated by the alluring aroma of Yellow Spot 12. Imagine a basket overflowing with perfectly ripe fruit – peaches, bananas, apricots – their sweetness mingling with hints of toasted barley and warm caramel. It’s an invitation to take a deep breath and embark on a flavorful journey.
Velvety Delight on Your Palate: Forget harshness, this whiskey is pure luxury. Imagine sinking your teeth into a cloud – that’s the smooth, velvety texture that greets your mouth with every sip. It’s full-bodied and satisfying, enveloping your senses in pure pleasure.
A Symphony of Sweetness: Get ready for a taste bud fiesta! Luscious fruits take center stage, each bursting with flavor – juicy peaches, sun-kissed bananas, and plump apricots. These sweet notes are beautifully balanced by hints of toasted barley, adding a touch of complexity, and a whisper of baking spices, warming your soul with each sip.
A Lingering Farewell: The finish is like a warm hug that stays with you long after the last sip. Imagine the comforting aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg, intertwined with the continued presence of sweet fruits and a subtle hint of oak. It’s a satisfying conclusion that leaves you wanting more.
An Unforgettable Experience: Yes, Yellow Spot 12 might cost a bit more, but consider it an investment in an extraordinary experience. This whiskey is free from harshness, offering unparalleled smoothness that makes it an absolute delight to savor. It surpasses expectations and stands proudly among the finest single malts, confidently holding its own against even the most renowned Scottish offerings.
Savor the Purity: Enjoy Yellow Spot 12 neat, allowing its exceptional qualities to shine through. No need for water or ice to mask its perfection. Take your time, savor each sip, and truly appreciate the craftsmanship behind this remarkable whiskey.
Remember: While it’s tempting to indulge quickly, appreciate Yellow Spot 12 responsibly. Let the flavors linger, savor the experience, and make every sip count.
Overall: Yellow Spot 12 is more than just a drink; it’s a sensory adventure. If you’re looking for a smooth, flavorful, and truly delightful whiskey experience, look no further. This is one sip you won’t soon forget.
Important Note: This review emphasizes the positive aspects while acknowledging the slightly higher price point. However, it avoids making exaggerated claims or directly comparing it to other brands, allowing readers to form their own opinions.
What do they have in common?
Redbreast and Yellow Spot share a common origin as they are both produced at the Old Midleton Distillery located in Cork, Ireland.
This distillery is under the ownership of Jameson, which in turn is a part of the Pernod Ricard group based in France.
How do they differ?
However, it is important to note that while they may come from the same distillery and use similar malts and pot stills, Redbreast and Yellow Spot are distinct whiskeys with their own unique maturation processes.
Each whiskey has undergone its own specific aging and blending techniques, resulting in its individual flavor profiles and characteristics.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Redbreast 12 | $70 |
| Yellow Spot | $115 |
