Frequently Asked Questions
Red Spot 15 Year Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey is a masterful expression of Ireland's whiskey-making heritage, crafted from an age-old recipe by the renowned Mitchell & Son family. Triple distilled and matured for a minimum of 15 years, this exceptional whiskey is aged in a harmonious blend of American bourbon casks, Spanish sherry butts, and Sicilian Marsala wine casks. The result is a rich, full-bodied flavor experience, offering notes of ripe fruit, toasted hazelnut, and black cherry on the nose, followed by a palate bursting with Marsala sweetness, spiced red pepper, and hints of American oak. Its long, luxurious finish of fruit and spices makes it a top-tier choice for whiskey connoisseurs and collectors alike. With its smooth complexity and historical pedigree, Red Spot is the pinnacle of Irish single pot still whiskey.
Process & Profile
Crafted with care, Red Spot is a single pot still Irish whiskey, a hallmark of Irish whiskey tradition. It is triple-distilled from a mash of malted and unmalted barley, a process that enhances smoothness and complexity. This whiskey is matured for a minimum of 15 years in a unique combination of American bourbon barrels, Spanish Oloroso sherry butts, and Sicilian Marsala wine casks. This creative cask selection imparts a depth of flavor rarely found in other whiskeys, making Red Spot an extraordinary choice for enthusiasts seeking a full-bodied and multi-layered profile.Tasting Notes
- Nose: A symphony of pot still spices paired with rich cooked fruits such as baked apple, mango, and black cherry. Subtle notes of hazelnut, toasted oak, and a whisper of new leather complete the aromatic experience.
- Palate: The Marsala wine casks lend ripe fruit sweetness alongside bursts of sweet red pepper and black pepper spiciness. This is further complemented by barley and hints of American oak, creating a balanced yet dynamic flavor profile.
- Finish: Long-lasting and indulgent, with a complex infusion of fruits and spices that lingers gracefully.
What Makes It Special
Red Spot is a treasure for whiskey purists, blending meticulous craftsmanship with a storied background. Revived in 2018 after decades of absence, it follows a recipe preserved by Mitchell & Son, Dublin wine merchants since 1805. The name “Red Spot” originates from the tradition of marking casks with colored paint to signify aging potential, with the red mark denoting 15 years as the pinnacle expression in the range. This whiskey represents a vibrant piece of Irish whiskey heritage brought to modern palates. The use of Marsala wine casks, in addition to bourbon and sherry, sets Red Spot apart. These unique casks create a lush yet distinct flavor profile, showcasing the best of traditional Irish techniques while standing out in the modern whiskey world.How to Enjoy
Savor the elegance of Red Spot 15 Year in various ways:- Neat: Ideal for appreciating the rich flavors and aromas in their purest form.
- On the Rocks: A touch of water or a single ice cube can unlock hidden notes, enhancing the complexity.
- Refined Cocktails: Add sophistication to classic whiskey-based drinks like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Red Spot 15 Year Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey unique?
Red Spot is a triple-distilled single pot still Irish whiskey made from malted and unmalted barley, a hallmark of this quintessentially Irish whiskey style. It is matured for a minimum of 15 years in a combination of bourbon barrels, Oloroso sherry butts, and Sicilian Marsala wine casks, resulting in a rich, complex, and characterful flavor profile. This longevity and cask variety make it stand out among Irish whiskeys.
What flavors and aromas can I expect?
On the nose, you'll encounter pot still spices, notes of baked apple, mango, black cherry, hazelnut, and subtle leather. The palate is greeted with sweet ripe fruits from Marsala wine casks, complemented by cracked black pepper and sweet red pepper spiciness, all balanced with American oak and barley. The finish is notably long, with a harmonious infusion of fruits and spices.
How should Red Spot 15 Year be enjoyed?
This whiskey is best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to unlock its full range of flavors and aromas. Its 46% ABV ensures a robust yet smooth drinking experience, making it ideal for seasoned whiskey enthusiasts who appreciate a complex profile.
What does "Single Pot Still" mean?
Single pot still whiskey is made at a single distillery using a mix of malted and unmalted barley and is distilled in traditional copper pot stills. This method imparts a distinctive creamy texture and spicy flavor, setting it apart from other whiskey styles like single malts or blended whiskeys. It is a uniquely Irish whiskey category, deeply rooted in the country's distilling heritage.
What is the history behind the Red Spot brand?
The Red Spot whiskey, crafted by Mitchell & Son, traces its origins to records from the early 1900s. The brand was reintroduced in 2018 after being discontinued in the 1960s. This revival stays true to its original recipe, offering a modern interpretation of an Irish whiskey icon with a rich legacy.
Who would enjoy Red Spot 15 Year Single Pot Still Whiskey?
Red Spot appeals to both seasoned whiskey connoisseurs and newcomers who appreciate a beautifully balanced and complex whiskey. Its sweet, spicy, and oaky notes make it versatile for various tastes, whether enjoyed as a standalone drink or paired with cheese, smoked meats, or dark chocolate for an elevated experience.
What is the significance of the cask types used in maturation?
The combination of bourbon, Oloroso sherry, and Marsala wine casks allows the whiskey to absorb a diverse range of flavors. Bourbon casks contribute vanilla and oak, sherry casks add dried fruits and nuts, and Marsala casks impart a fruity sweetness, all combining for a multi-layered taste experience.
Is Red Spot 15 Year worth its price?
For those seeking a premium single pot still Irish whiskey with a rich history and an exceptional flavor profile, Red Spot's balance of sweet, spicy, and deep oak flavors justifies its price point. It represents a top-tier expression in the Spot Whiskey range.
Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to PO Boxes and APO addresses.
Adult signature (21+) required upon delivery.
You may also like
More from New Arrivals
Recently viewed
