Thanks for the review. This is a great whiskey. A few to try: Powers Johns Lane 12, Glendalough Mizunara, Tyrconnell 15 Madeira, Yellow Spot 12. Cheers!
Cheers Gwhisky ! What can I say... glad that I have a bottle of it in my small and humble collection. Great review as always and thanks ! Much appreciated !
Hey Geoff, Yet another banger of a review. I love your format and light hearted style. Re the Redbreast 12 CS I've just managed to snag a bottle of batch b1/22 and can't wait to try it! You asked for a recommendation for other Irish style whiskies. I really enjoyed The Legendary Dark Silkie, but my top recommendation is Macaloney's Kildara. It's distilled not 15 miles from me here on on Vancouver Island, BC, Canada. Can't recommend that stuff enough!
Thanks for the kind words and the recommendations, James. I've just looked, and the Dark Silkie isn't sold in Taiwan. As for the Macaloneys, I might try to find that the next time I'm back in Canada, but I'm based in Montreal, and it's tough to find a lot of the good single malts from out west there. I'll try, though. Enjoy the Redbreast... it's a beauty. Cheers! 🥃
Just getting around to doing my notes on one of these now. As always, once I've written my tasting notes, I turn to one of my trusted peers to see what they thought. Great review Geoff. You have found a lot more in there than I did but, we are fully in agreement that it's good stuff. Cheers buddy.
This was my December purchase, Geoff, along with a bottle of Scapa Glansa. I haven't opened either yet, but I will be getting around to it. I'm just back from four nights with friends who each brought some whiskies. Knowing none of them had never tried a straight rye whisky before, I brought a bottle of Rebel Yell, plus some Port Charlotte 10 and a bottle of Knob Creek. Four very pleasant evenings!!!
Nice review! Try the RB 21yr, Powers Johns Lane and Knappogue Castle 14yr (it’s distilled at Bushmills). Also something from Cooley like the Tyrconnell Madeira finish or 16yr special release (if you can find).
The cask strength blue spot is my favourite Irish whiskey at the moment. It has the burn of a lower proof whiskey but all the flavour density of a cask strength, as well as the classiv pot still notes, and some tropical fruits in there too!
@@Gwhisky it's a good one alright, shame it's so limited at the moment, but since it's one of their core range products, supply will eventually meet demand, so no point rushing out and wasting money (I've seen secondary market prices at almost three times the MSRP)
The bottle of this I had a few years ago was so completely different from the regular 12 it was hard to believe they were the same Whiskey. Reminded me of cask strength Bourbon a lot. The 15 is fantastic and my favorite. Am not an Irish Whiskey nerd but those who are seem to think the more recent bottlings are not the quality of the previous ones. Cheers
Thanks man, I just bought my first bottle of Red Breast 12, Cask Strength and am looking forward to giving it a try. Sounds like it should be a good one and I paid $74.99 in Southern Minnesota , USA '-)
I paid over 130 CAD for this lol. To be honest though, I'm loving it a lot. But don't underestimate Alberta Premium Rye Cask strength (I have batch 5, 64.2% ABV). They're both amazing.
I come for the review, I stay for 'the move' @4:42 lol. I have heard nothing but good things about the Redbreast CS, its finally available around here so I might pick one up for the holidays. Cheers🥃
New batch of Blue spot was released in Ireland a couple of weeks ago. It’s almost sold out here already. Maybe it’ll hit the shelves over there at some point? Def grab one if you can.
I also like dingle distilleries whiskey, klonakiltys cask strength, any of the different colored dots (yellow, red, green, etc) bush mills black bush I hear is good
A lot of people will say Green Spot, but my pick next to Red Breast is Yellow Spot it’a a great choice as an alternative to Red Breast. The Teeling range is coming out with a very different direction in Irish Whiskey, worth exploring.
In Bulgaria this one can be had for roughly 40 euros and the 15 yo for 45 euros. Since you are asking about "the next level", I'd go for some of Bushmills Causeway Collection releases given they don't ask for an arm and a leg for them. I haven't had the opportunity to taste any of them, but so far I've heard nothing less than praises about them. Considering price/quality ratio though, at least in Bulgaria, IMHO Redbreast 12 CS (40 euros), Redbreast 15 (45 euros) and Powers 12 John's Lane (~25 euros) are unbeatable. Jameson Black Barrel (currently on special sale for less than 20 euros) is also very nice option although being a NAS blend at 40% ABV it just can't stand against those single pot still bottles. Cheers!
That Powers has been suggested many times over. Shame it's nowhere to be found locally, it seems. Love the Redbreast 15, though. Black Barrel hasn't really been on the radar but it is a cheap one...
@@Gwhisky Normaly I don't do low ABV, super market blends but Black Barrel has been recommended to me multiple times so when I saw it on special I bought a bottle to treat my colleagues at the office. Thus I had the opportunity to taste it and for the money it is a banger😀
Spot on review Mr G ... this is really good gear .. Nowt else to say about it , anyone not tried it , your missing out , stands comparison with the best !
I have a bottle On the way 😂😂😂 just got some good stuff in Ireland when I went but didn’t actually try and red breast or any of the dots.. excited to try it tho
Agreed!!! This is the best Irish whiskey. This hasn't been available in my area (Edmonton Alberta) for about five years. It just became available just before Christmas- I bought three bottles.... sheesh. I know, I know.... side note - the 15 year old is a close second. Cheers!
Hi Geoff, not two weeks ago had this in my hand but opted for Glen Scotia 18 instead but next year this is a definite buy. My favourite Irish at the moment is yellow spot, lovely stuff. Cheers for this video Geoff, enjoyed it. Slàinte.
thx for the review. down here in Australia the CS ($200 aud) is double the price of the standard 12 @40% ($100 aud). Hard to pull the trigger on either one compared to single malts for similar price.
PS...maybe take a look at Dingle and/or Teeling for alternatives to Redbreast. Or, for some great single malts...the Bushmills Causeway Collection provides.
Put blue spot cask strength on your list also green spot chateaux leoville Barton. Yellow spot is amazing too. Midleton Barry Crockett is amazing but expensive but well worth a try
Hi Geoff, just watched your review again :) since I am going to have some redbreast cask strength. I believe it has to be natural color; how can it be cask strength if they would have added any other liquid, right? It looks like natural color btw.
My whiskey store had this set aside for me as promised...I got the B1-17..58.2%ABV.. I will crack it open soon and join the Irish bandwagon... Your review and others really sold me on finding this. Thanks buddy... I also picked up your whisky of the year Craigellachie 13. I noticed it had a bit different cannister...The ABV was 46%..but worded a skosh different and my newest bottle was a 750ml... He must of gotten some USA bottles I guess. My other two bottles are older dusty 700s that sat on a shelf for years in an Asian supermarket across from my bank.. I paid 7 more dollars and got 50ml more... Toss in an AnCnoc 22 and it was a good day.. Cheers!
@@Gwhisky Ask and Yea shall receive my man... After 12 hours on an Air conditioned mini bus wearing a mask ...I was in need of some medicine before lunch... I opened the Redbreast 12 CS...B1-17 and made some lame assed amateur videos...I think it is great.. I love everything about it.. Getting tobacco and oak on the finish.. I tried it without water and chewed on that first sip for a good long while...very very juicy...I am used to high ABV spirits from long ago and was not taken aback by its kick...But, I sure understood why some feel the need for water... He has another bottle...I would buy it... In fact, it is so tasty I just poured a half a finger ...that oak was lingering on my palate. I look forward to having my wife blind pour me a dram of this and a dram of Glenfarclas 105 and one of Glengoyne CS and do a blind tasting and see what happens... I just double checked.. I paid $85us for the RB12CS...$65us for the Glengoyne CS and $52us for a liter of the 105.. Quite a difference.. I think this rich cigar smoke and oak finish will stand out and I will know the difference.. I was thinking I paid $95us.. He also gave me a small discount ..So, I paid about $83.50us..no tax... I will call this a winner.. After years of bartending prior to Culinary School and going to a Jesuit High School with a lot of Irish kids...I finally tasted an Irish whiskey... I left out I also got a back up Deanston 12...$40us..$39 with discount... That Craigellachie 13 is different from my other two bottles..they were dusty old bottles at an Asian liquor store I grabbed 3 GD12 Johnny Walker's at. The new bottle is a US 750ml...with a bit different description of the ABV.. I like finding different batches of a core whisky. I have two completely different labels on Clynelish 14s...I can get it all day for $45-49us.. The older label is a tad richer... Anyway, A big thumbs up to the Redbreast12 CS.. By the way, Johnny messaged me about any single malts I think he should import. I immediately told him Bunna 12, 18.. Arran 10 and older... He said ..he would try.. That would be nice.. He has a great shop and must separate himself from the competition by carrying single malts that nobody else has. I found the El Dorado 15 rum on his shelf.. That rum has won the rum of the year like 5 years in a row by Wray & Nephew ...the makers of the Jamaican rums I grew up drinking on the island as a wild rasta mon...ha ha. Cheers!
@@jeffmill999 CS side by sides are good fun. I'm pretty sure you'll be able to try the Redbreast apart from the Goyne and the Glendfarclas. Far less of a sherry bomb than the Glenfarclas, and much more Irish profile than the Goyne. Should be a fun exercise! I would imagine there is some variation between Criagellachie from year to year. Nothing ever stays the same! Sounds like your importer buddy is q good friend to have! 😉
@@Gwhisky He is businessman with a shop on the richest area of downtown Phnom Penh where he expected a lot of high rollers who go to the huge casino down the street would come by high end alcohol...Locals cannot gamble in the casinos...only work in them...Similar to China where they can only go to Macao..or here.. But, covid ruined tourism and toss in china is closed. They will not even let their own people come back without crazy quarantines. Cambodia opened up thinking somebody would come...no dice. I want to help Johnny by recommending whisky I would buy as would the malt mates around the world.. He has so much unnecessary inventory someone convinced him to carry. Like I always say, I can buy great whisky from 5+ years ago...Just nothing new.. I am kind of concerned what his prices will be for any new imports.. You are right...I poured a small dram of the Glengoyne..It was nothing like the Redbreast.. Cheers Geoff...
Red breast Lustau or Powers John's lane both are great whiskeys. I enjoyed and agree with your 12 Redbreast cask strength review. Keep up the good reviews.
Had a dram of it today (and before as well), and it was silly good as usual. What was unique about todays tasting of it is that I got kind of like a liquorice note after a while. I guess all the spices and some of the sweetness gathered together in a liquorice note. Was interesting. Like you I want to find competitors for this one, and will try Yellow Spot next, as it and the green one seem to be the runner ups for many people for the best irish in the game.
Scotch is by far my favorite but this one is amazing. At $85 its just as good as any Scotch at that price point. I also like blending this one with the regular 12 to get to to about 50% ABV. Let it marry for a couple weeks. Very nice!
If you ever see THE IRISHMAN 17 grab it, bottled at cask strength and nicely sherried and a very reasonable price, right up there with Redbreast 21, a few years younger but cask strength and cheaper.
Tried the Redbreast 15 year-old last Xmas - instant love. Heading back to Ireland soon so will check this CS out. I wasn't a big fan of Irish Whiskey till I tried Knappogue Castle 14-year-old
@@GwhiskyCheck out Ralfy review 562 for a preview of the KC 14 (packaging and bottle label have changed since then; now more contemporary and subdued). Noteworthy for being: 46%, non-chillfiltered, & natural colour.
Interesting, as Ralfy gives it 80 points, so that's quite a difference! Also, what kind of "baklava" are you referring to? There are a lot of varieties - 30, 40, or even more. Baklava is usually made with nuts such as walnuts, pistachios, ets. It's also more about taste than nose, so I am just curious what kind of baklava are you smelling and subsequently tasting. As for Irish whiskeys, West Cork is a good distillery and I would love to watch a review of some of their expressions. Thanks for this one!
Yeah Ralfy seems to have had a much more recent batch, so maybe it's gone downhill? This was my last bottle and it's from a few years back, so I'm not sure what the deal with this is presently. The baklava I was thinking of was with pistachios. Cheers! 🥃
You gotta try Redbreast Lustau (for the sherry lover), Yellow Spot (complex and delicious), Blue Spot (cask strength) and Powers John’s Lane (spicy with a long finish) - all 3 are Midleton and nobody does Pot Still like Midleton!
Yellow Spot is beautiful. Sadly quite expensive nowadays, but the sample I tried I loved. The other spots aren't sold here, and if they are the prices are just absurd. Sadly we don't get deals on Irish whiskeys like we do scotches here in Taiwan. A lot of Irish out there for me to explore. 🥃
Im sure you already know these but you should definitely try the Spot series: Green/Yellow/Red Spot. And Blue spot if you want the cask strength of that line. Than I would really recommend Powers John Lane 12 year old. Cheers Geoff! Slainte 🥃
I've tried samples of some of the Spot releases, but sadly the bottles are overpriced here in Taiwan. I do want to get a bottle for myself, though. I might pull the trigger at some point. Powers is another one that's pricey here. 😞
@@Gwhisky Aww man...that socks... It's interesting though because in another video you mentioned that Irish whiskey isn't that popular there, yet. I don't think higher prices will attract the whiskey enthusiasts though to try them.... unfortunate and I definitely fail to see the logic in there, provided there is any logic to the higher prices. I can relate though, I'm dying to try the Kavalan Solist Sherry Cask but here it's around 140EU. Maybe someday I will bite the bullet like you said and just go for it. Let's see. If you decide to try any of the Spots I recommend you shoot for the... honestly they are all good for different reasons. Looking forward to a review sometime in the future maybe with friendlier prices on them. Slainte 🥃
Only recently discovered this and have this same batch which is excellent - have since bought the most recent batch which was good but not as good as this 57.6 so i think this is a particularly good one...
I haven't explored the batches, so I can't really comment. I had other batches that I also enjoyed, but too far apart to compare. This is,definitely a good one, though. Cheers!
This was my favorite Irish Whisky until recently when I have started to question myself. I think there might have a strong contender to replace it or at least give it a run for its money. The Blue Spot 7 years Cask Strength. A must try. I got it for 85$ on whisky exchange, its a steal! Apart from this, the yellow spot is a solid whisky, more of a regular Irish whisky sipper. Red Spot is expensive but another excellent dram. I found two stacks cask strength whiskey intriguing and with a lot of potential. Not as balanced as Redbreast or the Spot whiskies. But, the Redbreast 12 CS will always be special and is always replenished on my shelves.
Yeah it's a shame the “Spots” are hard to come by here. I'd happily grab the yellow, blue, red, purple, fuchsia, pink, maroon or aquamarine if I could find the damn things out here. Likewise, this one will always be a special bottle for me. It was the first bottle to truly show me what Irish whiskey could be. Cheers!
@@Gwhisky I lucked up and found a bottle for $94 (it's listed at $114 at Total Wine and they never have it in stock). I felt like a kid finding a special egg on Easter 😎
Only had tried RB 12yo 40% and I'm not a fan; but since so many big recommendations on CS version, plus seems its flavor profile is different, will give it a shot!
@@Gwhisky same here... ive not come across any of the "spots" so ill be keen to try any of em... They all quite good apparently... I have the RB 12CS, 15 and 21... all unopened still. Hopefully soon
@@Yong_Goh I've been considering dishing out for the RB21. Really well received and I love the 12CS and the 15. Please share your thoughts on it when you pop it!
German websites say it has farbstoff (coloring) just to be on the ‘safe’ site communicating to their consumers imho. Could you please send an email or letter to the distillery next to to be absolutely sure about the coloring ?
Like you I'm mostly a scotch drinker, but I've dabbled in Irish whiskey a little bit as well. I think you would enjoy Yellow Spot and Redbreast Lustau. They're probably not in the same league as the Redbreast CS, but solid whiskeys nonetheless. As more accessible daily sippers I really like Powers Signature and The Sexton. Not overly complex but dangerously drinkable! 🙂
@@Gwhisky Yeah it's been pretty bad for the past couple of months between supply chain issues and a strike by the warehouse workers. Good thing I'm fairly well stocked! 😄
It's about double the price here, too, nowadays. Yes, I do pay it sometimes. Be aware that it can be batchy l, though, so that price bump is usually, but not always, justified. 🥃
@@Gwhisky So I recon, as you probably know, Ralfy scored this whisky 90 at one time and then 80 this year. Which makes me ever so slightly sceptical about this year's batch. I just ordered the 15YO so maybe that'll do for the time being.
If you can get your hands on the standard Tyrconnell 16 (NOT the wine finish) .. GRAB IT! Tropical/malty heaven. DO NOT waste your time with ANY Bushmills. Glendalough 13 (standard) is also very good, but the finish suffers and doesn't live up to the explosively wonderful mid palate.
Some german websites stated that its without coloring, so it probably is without coloring, since youd have to state it in germany. And for research: some german websites nearly always write: with coloring, just to be sure in case, because they dont look it up themselves
This is a great whisk(e)y. Always have a backup bottle at a decent price. 40% wtf? A spot may be the greatest thing ever but I can't do it when craft presented scotch is less$ . The yellow spot here is the most expensive 12 year old aside from Springbank. I came across a store pick of Glendalough triple barrel at 42% Bourbon,Oloroso and Madeira casks for $30. Its nice. Not Scotch. God bless them, but the whiskey is just nice.
I've looked at Green Spot, but the 40% put me off. Yellow is on the shopping list, and there are plenty of other suggestions in the comments. But generally, I do find Irish offerings to be consistently pleasant, but not outstanding (this and the 15 being exceptions). But that's probably just my lack of experience with the good stuff...
@@Gwhisky I never expected myself to say it, but if you can get the 27YO around 400EUR it's worth it. At least try a sample somewhere, another dimension of fruitiness
Thanks for assuring me that the bottle my store is holding for me is worth it. This will be the first Irish I ever try. I saw this a few weeks ago after I already had 6 bottles picked out.. It fits my 2022 game plan.. Cast strength or 18+... Cheers buddy
@@Gwhisky I can get a Glencadam 21 for $140us. Seems like a good price. Craigellachie 17..is one .. Speyburn 18...and the Redbreast 12 CS.. Thinking of going Friday. I may just get 3 of those or 2 and something else. The only 21 I have is GD Billy Walker...that Glencadam is supposed to be kick ass... Yeah, I am not getting any younger and these bottles are not going to be around. I will look around his shop and see if I missed any gems. Had a nice dram of Glengoyne #6 CS while I was manning the bbq today.. Cheers Geoff
@@jeffmill999 I like the Glencadam, although it's not my favourite. I think the 10 and the 15 both offer better value, but when I said that in my review I had a lot of people say they absolutely loved it, so you might enjoy it more than me. It's definitely good and worth trying... Cheers!
@@Gwhisky Thanks ..I will keep that in mind. For about the same amount I can get several other bottles I want...Craigellachie 17 is one...He still has a Billy Walker 18 GD ...but, I have 2...I wanted the younger Glencadams but not sure if he has them...I will look. Going solo..The Khmer body guard/wife is staying home this trip... Cheers...You helped me choose the Craigellachie 17..$115us..
Thanks for the review. This is a great whiskey. A few to try: Powers Johns Lane 12, Glendalough Mizunara, Tyrconnell 15 Madeira, Yellow Spot 12. Cheers!
Haven't tried any of those. I'll keep an eye out for them. Appreciate the suggestions! 🙏
@@Gwhisky Any time - you do a great job!
I can agree with the Powers John's Lane. Alot going on there, worth doing a review on.
@@seanmurphy2163 Noted! Thanks!
Yellow Spot is my all time favourite whisky. Very expensive for what it is, but worth every penny.
Great review. I keep coming back to this bottle and with time away when I come back it blows me away every time!
It's fantastic! Glad you enjoy it Christopher! 🥃
Cheers Gwhisky !
What can I say... glad that I have a bottle of it in my small and humble collection.
Great review as always and thanks ! Much appreciated !
It's a beauty! Cheers SLAV! 🥃
Hey Geoff, Yet another banger of a review. I love your format and light hearted style. Re the Redbreast 12 CS I've just managed to snag a bottle of batch b1/22 and can't wait to try it! You asked for a recommendation for other Irish style whiskies. I really enjoyed The Legendary Dark Silkie, but my top recommendation is Macaloney's Kildara. It's distilled not 15 miles from me here on on Vancouver Island, BC, Canada. Can't recommend that stuff enough!
Thanks for the kind words and the recommendations, James. I've just looked, and the Dark Silkie isn't sold in Taiwan. As for the Macaloneys, I might try to find that the next time I'm back in Canada, but I'm based in Montreal, and it's tough to find a lot of the good single malts from out west there. I'll try, though. Enjoy the Redbreast... it's a beauty. Cheers! 🥃
Just getting around to doing my notes on one of these now. As always, once I've written my tasting notes, I turn to one of my trusted peers to see what they thought. Great review Geoff. You have found a lot more in there than I did but, we are fully in agreement that it's good stuff.
Cheers buddy.
Thanks Jim! Looking forward to your review of this one!
This was my December purchase, Geoff, along with a bottle of Scapa Glansa. I haven't opened either yet, but I will be getting around to it. I'm just back from four nights with friends who each brought some whiskies. Knowing none of them had never tried a straight rye whisky before, I brought a bottle of Rebel Yell, plus some Port Charlotte 10 and a bottle of Knob Creek. Four very pleasant evenings!!!
Sounds like a great time! I havent tried that Rebel Yell, although I do occasionally enjoy a nice rye.
Great selection. What were they like?
@@jasonedwardledburynewzeala9897 Rebel yell was exceptionally good. Knob Creek is great too, and very reasonably priced. None of them will disappoint.
@@sunryse111 nice. Thanks bro. I have been looking at both. I must pull the trigger now! 👏👏👏👏😁👊
@@sunryse111 is the rebel 100 the best of the rebel? They have that here in New Zealand and the know creek 9
Been looking at this whiskey and can’t wait to try it.
Love the review thank you try Blue Spot amazing!
Thanks for the review. Try the RB 21yr, Powers Johns Lane and Knappogue Castle 14 yr (It’s distilled at Bushmills).
I'll keep an eye out for those, although they tend to be difficult to find in my market. Thanks! 🥃
Nice Video.! One of my favorite Whiskeys in 2022. I love that one! It´s so special!
It's a beauty! Cheers Tom. 🥃
@@Gwhisky thanks and cheers mate. Can I ask where do you come from? I am from Germany. Greetings Tom :-)
@@tom4711 Hi Tom. I'm originally from a city called Montréal in Canada.
@@Gwhisky Oh nice. i have an uncle there. Greetings :-)
Nice review, i would also check out johns lane casj strength and knappogue castle 14 (the 21 is overcasked so you can avoid)
Another great review! Couldn't find the 12CS here but ordered a bottle of the 15 on your recommend and it's amazing cheers!
Love that 15. Cheers Lewis! 🥃
Nice review! Try the RB 21yr, Powers Johns Lane and Knappogue Castle 14yr (it’s distilled at Bushmills). Also something from Cooley like the Tyrconnell Madeira finish or 16yr special release (if you can find).
Been eyeballing the Tyrconnell Madeira for a while now, would love a review of that one!
The cask strength blue spot is my favourite Irish whiskey at the moment. It has the burn of a lower proof whiskey but all the flavour density of a cask strength, as well as the classiv pot still notes, and some tropical fruits in there too!
It's been recommended several times over. Sounds like a banger. Shame it's so tough to find, though. Thanks for the tip!
@@Gwhisky it's a good one alright, shame it's so limited at the moment, but since it's one of their core range products, supply will eventually meet demand, so no point rushing out and wasting money (I've seen secondary market prices at almost three times the MSRP)
The bottle of this I had a few years ago was so completely different from the regular 12 it was hard to believe they were the same Whiskey. Reminded me of cask strength Bourbon a lot. The 15 is fantastic and my favorite. Am not an Irish Whiskey nerd but those who are seem to think the more recent bottlings are not the quality of the previous ones. Cheers
Hadn't heard that. Good to know! Cheers!
My two bottles were bought separately 1 and 3 years ago. Good whisky, but neither fared well in blinds against Powers Johns Lane or Yellow Spot.
Thanks man, I just bought my first bottle of Red Breast 12, Cask Strength and am looking forward to giving it a try. Sounds like it should be a good one and I paid $74.99 in Southern Minnesota , USA '-)
I paid over 130 CAD for this lol. To be honest though, I'm loving it a lot. But don't underestimate Alberta Premium Rye Cask strength (I have batch 5, 64.2% ABV). They're both amazing.
Nice review. That's definitely going on my buy list for 2022!
Great! It won't disappoint! 🥃
I come for the review, I stay for 'the move' @4:42 lol. I have heard nothing but good things about the Redbreast CS, its finally available around here so I might pick one up for the holidays. Cheers🥃
“The move.” Hah! Well I don't think you'll be disappointed, Jason. Banger. 😉
Nice take, subbed!
Thanks Zunedog! Appreciated!
Redbreast is my favorite lineup of Irish Whiskey… Power’s John’s Lane is also delicious… nice review…
Thanks, glad you like them! 🥃
I think you should try Powers Johns Lane. It’s going to be a lot more butterscotch heavy with a long finish.
I'll be on the lookout for it once I'm free from quarantine! 🥃
New batch of Blue spot was released in Ireland a couple of weeks ago. It’s almost sold out here already. Maybe it’ll hit the shelves over there at some point? Def grab one if you can.
Hit the shelves in UK this week...then promptly flew off the shelves!
Hah in Taiwan I won't hold my breath! Bucket list whiskey, though! 🥃
I also like dingle distilleries whiskey, klonakiltys cask strength, any of the different colored dots (yellow, red, green, etc) bush mills black bush I hear is good
Thanks for the suggestions! 🥃
A lot of people will say Green Spot, but my pick next to Red Breast is Yellow Spot it’a a great choice as an alternative to Red Breast. The Teeling range is coming out with a very different direction in Irish Whiskey, worth exploring.
The Spots are definitely on the shopping list. Heard mixed things about Teeling but sounds interesting! Cheers Clinton! 🥃
In Bulgaria this one can be had for roughly 40 euros and the 15 yo for 45 euros. Since you are asking about "the next level", I'd go for some of Bushmills Causeway Collection releases given they don't ask for an arm and a leg for them. I haven't had the opportunity to taste any of them, but so far I've heard nothing less than praises about them.
Considering price/quality ratio though, at least in Bulgaria, IMHO Redbreast 12 CS (40 euros), Redbreast 15 (45 euros) and Powers 12 John's Lane (~25 euros) are unbeatable. Jameson Black Barrel (currently on special sale for less than 20 euros) is also very nice option although being a NAS blend at 40% ABV it just can't stand against those single pot still bottles.
Cheers!
This is dirt cheap. In Greece prices are more than twice as high. I could not find a Bulgarian website that ships to Greece though.
That Powers has been suggested many times over. Shame it's nowhere to be found locally, it seems. Love the Redbreast 15, though. Black Barrel hasn't really been on the radar but it is a cheap one...
@@Gwhisky Normaly I don't do low ABV, super market blends but Black Barrel has been recommended to me multiple times so when I saw it on special I bought a bottle to treat my colleagues at the office. Thus I had the opportunity to taste it and for the money it is a banger😀
Spot on review Mr G ...
this is really good gear ..
Nowt else to say about it , anyone not tried it , your missing out , stands comparison with the best !
💯% agree! Cheers Allan! 🥃
Try the 21 or 27… the 27 is one of the best I have ever had.
The 21 will be my birthday pour this year. 🥃
I have a bottle
On the way 😂😂😂 just got some good stuff in Ireland when I went but didn’t actually try and red breast or any of the dots.. excited to try it tho
Should you be adding water to cask strength wiskeys?
Always good to try it neat and with water to find your preferred ABV. 🥃
Chewing Tabasco? Love the videos.
Agreed!!! This is the best Irish whiskey. This hasn't been available in my area (Edmonton Alberta) for about five years. It just became available just before Christmas- I bought three bottles.... sheesh. I know, I know.... side note - the 15 year old is a close second. Cheers!
Hi Geoff, not two weeks ago had this in my hand but opted for Glen Scotia 18 instead but next year this is a definite buy. My favourite Irish at the moment is yellow spot, lovely stuff. Cheers for this video Geoff, enjoyed it. Slàinte.
Glen scotia is a amazing whiskey, try a couple of drops of water totally changes the whiskey to more amazing whiskey
Yellow Spot is definitely on the radar!
thx for the review. down here in Australia the CS ($200 aud) is double the price of the standard 12 @40% ($100 aud). Hard to pull the trigger on either one compared to single malts for similar price.
Fair enough. The 12 CS has shot up in price here as well, unfortunatley.
PS...maybe take a look at Dingle and/or Teeling for alternatives to Redbreast. Or, for some great single malts...the Bushmills Causeway Collection provides.
Sadly I've yet to see any Dingle sold in my market. Teeling is one I'll be on the lookout for! Cheers!
Put blue spot cask strength on your list also green spot chateaux leoville Barton. Yellow spot is amazing too. Midleton Barry Crockett is amazing but expensive but well worth a try
Sadly all are really hard to come by here.
Going to go out and find a bottle of this. Got recommended Teelings by a few people and enjoyed it
You won't be disappointed, I'm sure. Epic stuff imo!
Hi Geoff, just watched your review again :) since I am going to have some redbreast cask strength. I believe it has to be natural color; how can it be cask strength if they would have added any other liquid, right? It looks like natural color btw.
Yeah I hope you're right. I think it's probably natural, too. 🥃
My whiskey store had this set aside for me as promised...I got the B1-17..58.2%ABV..
I will crack it open soon and join the Irish bandwagon...
Your review and others really sold me on finding this.
Thanks buddy...
I also picked up your whisky of the year Craigellachie 13. I noticed it had a bit different cannister...The ABV was 46%..but worded a skosh different and my newest bottle was a 750ml...
He must of gotten some USA bottles I guess.
My other two bottles are older dusty 700s that sat on a shelf for years in an Asian supermarket across from my bank..
I paid 7 more dollars and got 50ml more...
Toss in an AnCnoc 22 and it was a good day..
Cheers!
AnCnoc, Criagellachie, and Redbreast 12 cs = a damn good haul! Let me know your thoughts on that Redbreast when you crack it! 🥃
@@Gwhisky Ask and Yea shall receive my man...
After 12 hours on an Air conditioned mini bus wearing a mask ...I was in need of some medicine before lunch...
I opened the Redbreast 12 CS...B1-17 and made some lame assed amateur videos...I think it is great..
I love everything about it..
Getting tobacco and oak on the finish..
I tried it without water and chewed on that first sip for a good long while...very very juicy...I am used to high ABV spirits from long ago and was not taken aback by its kick...But, I sure understood why some feel the need for water...
He has another bottle...I would buy it...
In fact, it is so tasty I just poured a half a finger ...that oak was lingering on my palate.
I look forward to having my wife blind pour me a dram of this and a dram of Glenfarclas 105 and one of Glengoyne CS and do a blind tasting and see what happens...
I just double checked..
I paid $85us for the RB12CS...$65us for the Glengoyne CS and $52us for a liter of the 105..
Quite a difference..
I think this rich cigar smoke and oak finish will stand out and I will know the difference..
I was thinking I paid $95us..
He also gave me a small discount ..So, I paid about $83.50us..no tax...
I will call this a winner..
After years of bartending prior to Culinary School and going to a Jesuit High School with a lot of Irish kids...I finally tasted an Irish whiskey...
I left out I also got a back up Deanston 12...$40us..$39 with discount...
That Craigellachie 13 is different from my other two bottles..they were dusty old bottles at an Asian liquor store I grabbed 3 GD12 Johnny Walker's at.
The new bottle is a US 750ml...with a bit different description of the ABV..
I like finding different batches of a core whisky.
I have two completely different labels on Clynelish 14s...I can get it all day for $45-49us..
The older label is a tad richer...
Anyway, A big thumbs up to the Redbreast12 CS..
By the way, Johnny messaged me about any single malts I think he should import.
I immediately told him Bunna 12, 18..
Arran 10 and older...
He said ..he would try..
That would be nice..
He has a great shop and must separate himself from the competition by carrying single malts that nobody else has.
I found the El Dorado 15 rum on his shelf..
That rum has won the rum of the year like 5 years in a row by Wray & Nephew ...the makers of the Jamaican rums I grew up drinking on the island as a wild rasta mon...ha ha.
Cheers!
@@jeffmill999 CS side by sides are good fun. I'm pretty sure you'll be able to try the Redbreast apart from the Goyne and the Glendfarclas. Far less of a sherry bomb than the Glenfarclas, and much more Irish profile than the Goyne. Should be a fun exercise!
I would imagine there is some variation between Criagellachie from year to year. Nothing ever stays the same!
Sounds like your importer buddy is q good friend to have! 😉
@@Gwhisky He is businessman with a shop on the richest area of downtown Phnom Penh where he expected a lot of high rollers who go to the huge casino down the street would come by high end alcohol...Locals cannot gamble in the casinos...only work in them...Similar to China where they can only go to Macao..or here..
But, covid ruined tourism and toss in china is closed.
They will not even let their own people come back without crazy quarantines.
Cambodia opened up thinking somebody would come...no dice.
I want to help Johnny by recommending whisky I would buy as would the malt mates around the world..
He has so much unnecessary inventory someone convinced him to carry. Like I always say, I can buy great whisky from 5+ years ago...Just nothing new..
I am kind of concerned what his prices will be for any new imports..
You are right...I poured a small dram of the Glengoyne..It was nothing like the Redbreast..
Cheers Geoff...
wow, you scored this 92 and Ralfy 80 .... just seen an offer at £72...what to do?!
To be fair, that was my old scoring system. But still, I think it's excellent stuff and definitely still hits near the 90 mark. 🥃
I heard good reviews of Bushmills 16
So have I. 40% though...
Teeling BlackPitts would be a fun review. A very unique Irish Whiskey
I've heard it's interesting. Thanks for the recommendation, I'll keep an eye put for it.
Excellent score for the top Irish whiskey. I cannot think of a better Irish dram. Its hard to get now in New Zealand.
Red breast Lustau or Powers John's lane both are great whiskeys. I enjoyed and agree with your 12 Redbreast cask strength review. Keep up the good reviews.
Thanks for the suggestions and the kind words Doug! 🙏
Next one on the list!
Just picked it up mins ago $105
Had a dram of it today (and before as well), and it was silly good as usual. What was unique about todays tasting of it is that I got kind of like a liquorice note after a while. I guess all the spices and some of the sweetness gathered together in a liquorice note. Was interesting.
Like you I want to find competitors for this one, and will try Yellow Spot next, as it and the green one seem to be the runner ups for many people for the best irish in the game.
Yeah the Spots seem to be the concensus. I'm still trying to find them for a decent price. Hope you find and enjoy them!
Midleton's Dair Ghaelach. They've had 3 releases of 6-9 or so unique "trees" each. I've only tried 1, but it was fantastic.
You're the first one to suggest that. Just looked it up. Interesting! Thanks JP! 🙏
amazing irish whisky , i like their 15 and 21 too...please review glen scotia victoriana)
I've reviewed the Victoriana. Love it!
Scotch is by far my favorite but this one is amazing. At $85 its just as good as any Scotch at that price point. I also like blending this one with the regular 12 to get to to about 50% ABV. Let it marry for a couple weeks. Very nice!
That could work!
If you ever see THE IRISHMAN 17 grab it, bottled at cask strength and nicely sherried and a very reasonable price, right up there with Redbreast 21, a few years younger but cask strength and cheaper.
Thanks! I'll keep an eye out for it! 🥃
Just a really nice whisky
I liked the vid before I watched it because I already knew how you were going to feel about it lol
Hah yeah I did a piss-poor job at keeping the suspense on this one. 😂
Tried the Redbreast 15 year-old last Xmas - instant love. Heading back to Ireland soon so will check this CS out. I wasn't a big fan of Irish Whiskey till I tried Knappogue Castle 14-year-old
Thanks Declan. I'll keep my eyes peeled for that one! 🥃
@@GwhiskyCheck out Ralfy review 562 for a preview of the KC 14 (packaging and bottle label have changed since then; now more contemporary and subdued). Noteworthy for being: 46%, non-chillfiltered, & natural colour.
Will do!
Interesting, as Ralfy gives it 80 points, so that's quite a difference! Also, what kind of "baklava" are you referring to? There are a lot of varieties - 30, 40, or even more. Baklava is usually made with nuts such as walnuts, pistachios, ets. It's also more about taste than nose, so I am just curious what kind of baklava are you smelling and subsequently tasting. As for Irish whiskeys, West Cork is a good distillery and I would love to watch a review of some of their expressions. Thanks for this one!
Yeah Ralfy seems to have had a much more recent batch, so maybe it's gone downhill? This was my last bottle and it's from a few years back, so I'm not sure what the deal with this is presently. The baklava I was thinking of was with pistachios. Cheers! 🥃
@@Gwhisky I understand, thanks for the reply 🙂
You gotta try Redbreast Lustau (for the sherry lover), Yellow Spot (complex and delicious), Blue Spot (cask strength) and Powers John’s Lane (spicy with a long finish) - all 3 are Midleton and nobody does Pot Still like Midleton!
Yellow Spot is beautiful. Sadly quite expensive nowadays, but the sample I tried I loved. The other spots aren't sold here, and if they are the prices are just absurd. Sadly we don't get deals on Irish whiskeys like we do scotches here in Taiwan. A lot of Irish out there for me to explore. 🥃
@@Gwhisky Can you get the Lustau or Powers John’s Lane?
Im sure you already know these but you should definitely try the Spot series: Green/Yellow/Red Spot. And Blue spot if you want the cask strength of that line.
Than I would really recommend Powers John Lane 12 year old. Cheers Geoff! Slainte 🥃
I've tried samples of some of the Spot releases, but sadly the bottles are overpriced here in Taiwan. I do want to get a bottle for myself, though. I might pull the trigger at some point. Powers is another one that's pricey here. 😞
@@Gwhisky Aww man...that socks...
It's interesting though because in another video you mentioned that Irish whiskey isn't that popular there, yet. I don't think higher prices will attract the whiskey enthusiasts though to try them.... unfortunate and I definitely fail to see the logic in there, provided there is any logic to the higher prices. I can relate though, I'm dying to try the Kavalan Solist Sherry Cask but here it's around 140EU. Maybe someday I will bite the bullet like you said and just go for it. Let's see. If you decide to try any of the Spots I recommend you shoot for the... honestly they are all good for different reasons. Looking forward to a review sometime in the future maybe with friendlier prices on them. Slainte 🥃
Only recently discovered this and have this same batch which is excellent - have since bought the most recent batch which was good but not as good as this 57.6 so i think this is a particularly good one...
I haven't explored the batches, so I can't really comment. I had other batches that I also enjoyed, but too far apart to compare. This is,definitely a good one, though. Cheers!
This was my favorite Irish Whisky until recently when I have started to question myself. I think there might have a strong contender to replace it or at least give it a run for its money. The Blue Spot 7 years Cask Strength. A must try. I got it for 85$ on whisky exchange, its a steal!
Apart from this, the yellow spot is a solid whisky, more of a regular Irish whisky sipper. Red Spot is expensive but another excellent dram.
I found two stacks cask strength whiskey intriguing and with a lot of potential. Not as balanced as Redbreast or the Spot whiskies.
But, the Redbreast 12 CS will always be special and is always replenished on my shelves.
Yeah it's a shame the “Spots” are hard to come by here. I'd happily grab the yellow, blue, red, purple, fuchsia, pink, maroon or aquamarine if I could find the damn things out here.
Likewise, this one will always be a special bottle for me. It was the first bottle to truly show me what Irish whiskey could be.
Cheers!
@@Gwhisky Taiwan needs to update its "Spot"ify list for sure. And yes, making more bad puns is on my 2022 resolutions.
Oof these are terrible. You're lucky I've missed you! 😉😂🥃
@@Gwhisky Thank "Bunna" heavens!
This has become harder and harder to find. Found a bottle today, so I'm going to enjoy the bottle I've been holding onto tonight.
Same here. It's harder to find and more expensive nowadays, unfortunately.
@@Gwhisky I lucked up and found a bottle for $94 (it's listed at $114 at Total Wine and they never have it in stock). I felt like a kid finding a special egg on Easter 😎
can you review some juras pls :)
Powers john lane is a must. I forgot to add this to my list below
That's sold here but for about double the UK price. Haven't pulled the trigger yet. Appreciate the suggestions, Carl!
Yellow Spot, Johns Lane, Dunvilles PX would be my immediate suggestions
Great suggestions. Haven't tried any of them but they're all quite popular it seems. Thanks! 🙏
yellow spot try Malaga cask, enjoy Sir +++
Hard to find here but I'll try. Thanks! 🥃
Only had tried RB 12yo 40% and I'm not a fan; but since so many big recommendations on CS version, plus seems its flavor profile is different, will give it a shot!
Oh yeah this one definitely next level to the regular 12. Check it out! 🥃
have u tried Blue Spot? that one is also done at cask strength and is supposed to rival the RB 12CS
Haven't seen it in my market, but it's definitely on the wishlist!
@@Gwhisky same here... ive not come across any of the "spots" so ill be keen to try any of em... They all quite good apparently...
I have the RB 12CS, 15 and 21... all unopened still. Hopefully soon
@@Yong_Goh I've been considering dishing out for the RB21. Really well received and I love the 12CS and the 15. Please share your thoughts on it when you pop it!
Some good Irish: Blue Spot and Red Spot. Whistler 8 Cask strength Sherry.
Yeah I really gotta start exploring the “Spot” series. Tough to find in Taiwan...
German websites say it has farbstoff (coloring) just to be on the ‘safe’ site communicating to their consumers imho.
Could you please send an email or letter to the distillery next to to be absolutely sure about the coloring ?
I stopped trusting those websites a long time ago. Old video.
Funny, I was drinking this two hrs ago. One of my favorites, though score has slightly decreased the more other whiskys I try.
Well I'm still pretty new to this one. Haven't had much of it over the years so I'm enjoying every sip! 🥃
Red spot, Green Spot, Blue spot. All the Irish spot whiskies are pretty good.
Like you I'm mostly a scotch drinker, but I've dabbled in Irish whiskey a little bit as well. I think you would enjoy Yellow Spot and Redbreast Lustau. They're probably not in the same league as the Redbreast CS, but solid whiskeys nonetheless. As more accessible daily sippers I really like Powers Signature and The Sexton. Not overly complex but dangerously drinkable! 🙂
That Yellow Spot has been recommended by a few ppl now. Sounds like that's the next Irish on the shopping list. Thanks Peter!
@@Gwhisky Definitely looking forward to your review and hope Redbreast CS will be available here one day!
I was just in Mtl. The SAQ has nooooothing these days!
@@Gwhisky Yeah it's been pretty bad for the past couple of months between supply chain issues and a strike by the warehouse workers. Good thing I'm fairly well stocked! 😄
@Gwhisky Would be great to share a few glasses of whisky the next time you're in MTL!
Is it worth the $120?
Blue spot is quite a bit better than the redbreast CS, but it’s also pretty hard to find here in the states
Impossible to find in Taiwan, too. I've very curious about the “Spot” series.
I heard what ever is out there is the last of it is that true? (Red Breast cask strength)
I don't think it's being cancelled. I'll ask around, though. That would be terrible news if true!
I can get it (B1/23) in my country but it's £91, nearly twice the price of the regular 12YO 40%. Is it worth it?
It's about double the price here, too, nowadays. Yes, I do pay it sometimes. Be aware that it can be batchy l, though, so that price bump is usually, but not always, justified. 🥃
@@Gwhisky So I recon, as you probably know, Ralfy scored this whisky 90 at one time and then 80 this year. Which makes me ever so slightly sceptical about this year's batch. I just ordered the 15YO so maybe that'll do for the time being.
If you can get your hands on the standard Tyrconnell 16 (NOT the wine finish) .. GRAB IT! Tropical/malty heaven. DO NOT waste your time with ANY Bushmills. Glendalough 13 (standard) is also very good, but the finish suffers and doesn't live up to the explosively wonderful mid palate.
You know it's funny - I just picked up that precise whisky a few days ago. It's good stuff! 🥃
@@Gwhisky You're kidding? I've been looking for it for ages! Can't find it anywhere. You made a great choice!
Some german websites stated that its without coloring, so it probably is without coloring, since youd have to state it in germany. And for research: some german websites nearly always write: with coloring, just to be sure in case, because they dont look it up themselves
Good to know!
It is colour free, I checked
This is a great whisk(e)y. Always have a backup bottle at a decent price.
40% wtf? A spot may be the greatest thing ever but I can't do it when craft presented scotch is less$ . The yellow spot here is the most expensive 12 year old aside from Springbank.
I came across a store pick of Glendalough triple barrel at 42% Bourbon,Oloroso and Madeira casks for $30. Its nice. Not Scotch.
God bless them, but the whiskey is just nice.
I've looked at Green Spot, but the 40% put me off. Yellow is on the shopping list, and there are plenty of other suggestions in the comments. But generally, I do find Irish offerings to be consistently pleasant, but not outstanding (this and the 15 being exceptions). But that's probably just my lack of experience with the good stuff...
Go for Yellow Spot ;)
Noted! ✔
Blue Spot. Nothing else to add.
Blue Spot, Green Spot, and Powers 12.
Noted. Thanks! 🥃
Green spot Quail's gate @ 46%
Power's John's lane 12 yo 46 ABV awesome product for exactly 20 Euros a bottle.
REDBREAST 12 CS is twice the price but it isn't twice as good as Power's.
It's more expensive than the Redbreast 12 in my market. International pricing is bonkers...
@@Gwhisky No worth trying Power's John's lane 12 for such exorbitant price, REDBREAST is the best after Middleton Rare...my opinion of course.
the next step would be RB21 and the grand finale RB27
Ooph... let me check my wallet...
@@Gwhisky I never expected myself to say it, but if you can get the 27YO around 400EUR it's worth it. At least try a sample somewhere, another dimension of fruitiness
@@Mogadi21 Sounds amazing!
Glenmorangie
Thanks for assuring me that the bottle my store is holding for me is worth it.
This will be the first Irish I ever try.
I saw this a few weeks ago after I already had 6 bottles picked out..
It fits my 2022 game plan..
Cast strength or 18+...
Cheers buddy
Cask strength or 18? You're in for a hell of a year! 🥃
@@Gwhisky I can get a Glencadam 21 for $140us.
Seems like a good price.
Craigellachie 17..is one ..
Speyburn 18...and the Redbreast 12 CS..
Thinking of going Friday.
I may just get 3 of those or 2 and something else.
The only 21 I have is GD Billy Walker...that Glencadam is supposed to be kick ass...
Yeah, I am not getting any younger and these bottles are not going to be around.
I will look around his shop and see if I missed any gems.
Had a nice dram of Glengoyne #6 CS while I was manning the bbq today..
Cheers Geoff
@@jeffmill999 I like the Glencadam, although it's not my favourite. I think the 10 and the 15 both offer better value, but when I said that in my review I had a lot of people say they absolutely loved it, so you might enjoy it more than me. It's definitely good and worth trying...
Cheers!
@@Gwhisky Thanks ..I will keep that in mind.
For about the same amount I can get several other bottles I want...Craigellachie 17 is one...He still has a Billy Walker 18 GD ...but, I have 2...I wanted the younger Glencadams but not sure if he has them...I will look.
Going solo..The Khmer body guard/wife is staying home this trip...
Cheers...You helped me choose the Craigellachie 17..$115us..
Powers & The Spot Lineup are the only two Irish brands that compete with Redbreast imo
I'm trying to track them down for a fair price. It's tough in my market, but they're definitely on the wishlist! 🥃
Blue spot 7 - thank me later
If I can find it I'll do just that. Cheers Matt!