Discover the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation with Redbreast Kentucky Oak Edition Irish Whiskey. Crafted at Midleton Distillery, this single pot still whiskey embodies the essence of Irish heritage, enhanced by the unique influence of Kentucky oak sourced from the sustainable Elk Cave Farm. Triple distilled and aged in a combination of bourbon barrels and Oloroso sherry butts, the whiskey is finished for up to seven months in virgin Kentucky white oak casks, imparting luxurious notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasted almond. The aroma unveils hints of cedarwood, almond, and ripe berries, while the palate delivers a symphony of warm spices, autumnal fruits, and sweet brown sugar toffee. Bottled at a robust 101 proof, this limited-edition release is a rich, complex expression of Irish whiskey perfection, celebrating craftsmanship and sustainability at $95.99.
Process & Profile
Crafted at Ireland's renowned Midleton Distillery, this triple-distilled single pot still Irish whiskey begins with a mash bill of malted and unmalted barley. It is first matured in a combination of American Bourbon barrels and Spanish Oloroso Sherry butts. The whiskey's defining characteristic comes from its finishing process: 3–7 months in virgin American White Oak casks sourced from Kentucky's Elk Cave Farm. These oak casks are naturally air-dried and selected for their tight grain, infusing the whiskey with bold flavors and complexity.
Bottled at 101 proof (50.5% ABV), this whiskey delivers a high-intensity flavor while maintaining the smoothness RedBreast is known for.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: The aroma introduces freshly cut cedarwood, toasted almonds, and creamy vanilla, accented by sweet fruit notes like ripe berries. Subtle hints of charred wood and pot still spices add depth.
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Palate: The taste develops layers of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, harmonized with autumnal fruits and the rich tannins of Kentucky oak. Notes of brown sugar toffee, caramel, and vanilla unfold, offering both sweetness and spice.
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Finish: A long-lasting finish begins with fruity notes that gradually fade, leaving behind the pot still spices and intricate oak sweetness.
What Makes It Special
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Unique Finishing Process: The whiskey's final maturation in Kentucky-sourced, virgin white oak casks sets it apart, enhancing its oak character with notes of vanilla, toasted spices, and caramel.
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Sustainability: The oak is sourced from the Taylor family's Elk Cave Farm in Kentucky, renowned for sustainable forestry practices, ensuring an eco-conscious production.
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High Proof Excellence: At 101 proof, this edition delivers a robust and full-bodied whiskey experience while retaining the smoothness associated with Irish whiskey.
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Heritage Meets Innovation: As part of RedBreast's American Oak Series, it advances the tradition of Irish whiskey by incorporating distinctly American influences.
How to Enjoy
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Neat: Experience the full complexity of flavors without dilution. Ideal for savoring on special occasions.
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With a Drop of Water: A touch of water can mellow the oak intensity and reveal softer caramel and vanilla notes for a gentler profile.
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Cocktail-Friendly: While sophisticated enough to shine on its own, it also adds depth and character to classic whiskey cocktails like Old Fashioneds or Manhattans.
RedBreast Kentucky Oak Edition is more than just a whiskey—it's a story of global collaboration, sustainable craftsmanship, and flavor innovation. Perfect for enthusiasts and collectors alike, this limited-edition release invites you to explore the interplay of Irish tradition and American ingenuity with every sip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Redbreast Kentucky Oak Edition unique?
The Redbreast Kentucky Oak Edition is part of the brand's American Oak series, celebrating the influence of American white oak on whiskey. This limited edition is triple-distilled single pot still Irish whiskey, initially matured in American oak bourbon barrels and Spanish oloroso sherry butts. It undergoes a final finishing of 3 to 7 months in virgin American white oak sourced sustainably from the Taylor Family's Elk Cave Farm in Kentucky. This finishing adds distinct sweet vanilla and elevated wood spice notes to its profile.
What are the key tasting notes of this whiskey?
The Kentucky Oak Edition features a bouquet of freshly cut cedarwood, vanilla, and almond on the nose, with hints of red fruits. On the palate, expect spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, balanced by notes of brown sugar toffee, vanilla, and autumnal fruits. The finish is long, with fruits fading into lingering pot still spices and rich oak tannins.
What is the proof and ABV of the Kentucky Oak Edition?
This whiskey is bottled at 101 proof, or 50.5% ABV, which is higher than many other Irish whiskeys. This elevated proof highlights the whiskey's robust flavors, contributing to its depth and complexity.
Is this release suitable for people new to whiskey?
Yes, the Kentucky Oak Edition serves as a great introduction to single pot still Irish whiskeys, especially for those transitioning from bourbon. With its prominent oak influence and mild sweetness, it can appeal to bourbon drinkers seeking a new experience.
Is the Redbreast Kentucky Oak Edition available outside the United States?
This edition is currently a U.S.-exclusive release. It was created specifically for the American market and emphasizes the unique interplay between Redbreast whiskey and American oak.
What sustainability practices were followed in crafting this whiskey?
The oak barrels for this edition were sourced from the Taylor family's Elk Cave Farm in Kentucky, which employs sustainable forestry practices. The Taylor family champions techniques such as the shelterwood system, ensuring environmental sustainability and the health of future oak forests.
What is the suggested retail price (SRP) for the Kentucky Oak Edition?
The Redbreast Kentucky Oak Edition has a suggested retail price of $95.99. However, prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
What food pairings work well with the Kentucky Oak Edition?
Thanks to its rich vanilla, spice, and caramel profile, this whiskey pairs wonderfully with desserts like pecan pie or crème brûlée. It also complements savory dishes with earthy flavors, such as roasted meats or mushroom-based dishes.