Redbreast 12 Year Old Irish Whiskey

Redbreast 12 Year Old Irish Whiskey is the definitive expression of Single Pot Still craft, revered for its complexity and silky smoothness. Triple distilled from malted and unmalted barley, then matured for 12 years in a combination of bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks, it delivers balance, depth and heritage in every sip. An iconic, award-winning whiskey and an elegant choice for sipping or gifting.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Aromatic layers of spice, dried fruit and toasted oak rise on the nose, enriched by hints of sherry sweetness. The palate is full-bodied and velvety, marrying orchard fruits, creamy vanilla, nutmeg and roasted nuts. A satisfyingly long finish lingers with warm spice, honey and oak—an enduring hallmark of Irish pot still tradition.

Key Details

• Producer: Midleton Distillery
• Type: Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey
• Region: Cork, Ireland
• ABV: 40%
• Volume: 700ml
• Maturation: 12 years in bourbon & Oloroso sherry casks
• Serve: Neat, with a splash of water, on the rocks or in classic cocktails

Craftsmanship & Story

Redbreast traces its heritage back to 1912, when Gilbey’s of Dublin first bottled the whiskey that would become known as “the priest’s tipple.” Today, Midleton Distillery safeguards this legacy, crafting Redbreast from malted and unmalted barley, triple distilling in copper pot stills, and maturing exclusively in first-fill bourbon and sherry casks. The ruby hue and layered depth pay homage to over a century of tradition, making Redbreast 12 a timeless Irish icon.

Special Features

Redbreast 12 showcases the quintessential Single Pot Still style, with its creamy mouthfeel, rich spice, and sherry-driven sweetness. Triple distillation ensures purity and elegance, while ageing in carefully selected casks brings harmony and complexity. Named for the European robin, this whiskey embodies both heritage and character in equal measure.

Recognition & Accolades

Widely acclaimed by critics and competitions worldwide, with highlights including:

• Gold Outstanding – International Wine & Spirit Competition 2019
• Master – The Irish Whiskey Masters 2019
• Gold – World Whiskies Awards 2014 & Irish Whiskey Masters multiple years
• Liquid Gold Award – Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2014
• Irish Whiskey of the Year – Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2010
• Best Irish Pot Still – World Whiskies Awards 2013

Such accolades affirm Redbreast 12 as one of the world’s most iconic Irish whiskeys.

Cocktail Pairings

Redbreast 12 elevates classics with its rich pot still depth. An Old Fashioned gains warmth and fruit-spice complexity; a Manhattan becomes silkier and more aromatic; and a Boulevardier transforms into a luxurious, bittersweet sip. It also shines in an Irish Coffee, where its smooth fruit and spice balance rich cream, or in a Whiskey Sour, where its creamy body complements citrus brightness.

Food Pairing

With its sherry-cask richness, Redbreast 12 pairs beautifully with bold and indulgent flavours. Creamy Irish cheeses like Gubbeen or Crozier Blue, spiced beef, and Parma ham bring savoury harmony. Desserts such as dark chocolate, sticky toffee pudding, or warm apple crumble echo the whiskey’s fruit and spice. Smoked salmon and hearty beef stews highlight its depth, while rich curries find balance in its smooth, full-bodied warmth.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

Rich in heritage, craftsmanship, and flavour, Redbreast 12 Year Old is an exceptional gift for whiskey lovers and a proud addition to any collection. Whether savoured slowly or presented on special occasions, it embodies the art of Irish whiskey-making at its finest.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.