Redbreast Lustau

It’s still March 17 here in Canada as I write this, and I decided to catch ip on a couple of Irish whiskey samples that I have had for far too long. It’s also Purim today, and the tradition is you’re supposed to get drunk. That won’t happen, but a few CCs of the gentle spirit of life can’t hurt.

This whisky ”is initially matured in traditional bourbon and sherry casks for a period of 9-12 years. It is then finished for 1 additional year in first fill hand selected sherry butts that have been seasoned with the finest Oloroso sherry from the prestigious Bodegas Lustau in Jerez.” (info courtesy @OdysseusUnbound’s review)

I believe I tasted this at the home of @Talexander and liked it. I almost convinced myself to buy a bottle. The sample I am tasting today is from @OdysseusUnbound. My records show I received it in April 2018 (!!! - what a slowpoke I am!). The bottle was opened April 8, and the sample poured from a 7/8th full bottle on April 17 (presumably the same year).

This expression is reviewed in my usual manner in a standard Glencairn, allowing it to settle after which I take my nosing and tasting notes, followed by the addition of a few drops of water, waiting, then nosing and tasting.

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Nose: 22/25

Sweet and fruity. Fresh. I get dark fruits (some prunes), and some cinnamon. Nice nose. Water brightens it a little.

Taste: 21.5/25

Sweet and syrupy on the first sip. Plums, cinnamon, some pepper on the development. A little spirity. Water brightens it up a little, giving it a little effervescence. (22/25)

Finish: 21.5/25

Fairly long, with black pepper, and grape juice (deep red) on the exhale. No change with water.

Balance: 21/25

Maybe a little too peppery on the palate, but otherwise the nose and palate compliment each other. Water balances it a little. (21.5/25)

Score: Neat - 86/100 With Water: 87/100

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I like this whisky. I think I like it a little better with water, but I might have to try it a couple more times from the sample to be sure. Either way, this is a good whisky.

There are currently a handful of bottles available in Ontario. At under $90 this one should be a no-brainer to anyone who really likes this and is in need of adding to their cabinet. Sadly, I have no room to store it but I would definitely accept a dram if offered.

Thanks again @odysseusunbound for this sample.

Find where to buy Redbreast whisky