Irish whiskey has no shortage of new entrants these days, but like many things in the liquor world, it is those who have been doing things the same way for decades that have the finest to offer. Such is the case with Redbreast. It would be easy to argue that there is no finer lineup of quintessential Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey than the tremendous Redbreast line. The 12 year should be a staple in any good bar. The 15 year remains an accessible luxury for many and hints at the greatness to come for those who have their eye on the 21 year or even the 27. If you want something truly special without breaking the bank - the 15 is the place to be. Let's examine the whiskey: Burnished amber in color. The nose is extraordinary. It's a rich mix of berries and cream. Sweet vanilla, red fruit, complex toasted oak. A Baked Alaska comes to mind. It smells just so soft and easy and pretty, but with a depth that feels like it's hiding something. When you taste it, you find out just what it's hiding. A spicier tangier profile provided by the higher proof. It is lively on the palate. Gingersnap and butterscotch and citrus peel come alive. The texture is full and rich. Cookies and cream abound. The finish is a touch short in the 15 year, but it's not lacking. It would be hard to overstate the quality of this whiskey for lovers of a classic Irish profile.