Redbreast Lustau Edition

I smell all the traditional sherry notes like dark fruits, but deep down I still get the traditional Irish nose of shortbread cookies. The taste is a delicious blending of sherry with redbreast

Toffee, prunes, figs, dates, and dark, jammy fruits are right up front. The nose is quite dry despite the intensity of the fruit. There is some nice oak hinting at some barrel notes to be discovered underneath all of the sweetness. The palate is significantly brighter than expected, with the dark fruit bringing along some sweet apple and intense spices. The fruit and the spice turns almost leather and tobacco as it lingers, but it always stays just on the side of the fruit. There is a bit of shortbread cookie underneath everything giving some foundation, with the buttery sweetness blending smoothly with the oak still lurking in the background. Subsequent sips found a flaky biscuit right up front before the fruits charged in. The finish is medium with the oak gaining more prominence. Breathing in sharply after swallowing fills your mouth with a beautiful cinnamon and clove apple sugar that is perfectly balanced by the wood. The finish is ultimately an aged, dry oak that has been used as a cutting board for dark fruits over the long years. **After only the initial taste, I think I prefer this to the Redbreast 12yr (also reviewed) as it has quite a lot more to discover. I'd be willing to say that this is an Irish for bourbon drinkers, while the Redbreast is an Irish for Highland Scotch drinkers.**

Was looking for just the 12 year and the bartender pointed out this release, too -- felt I had to try it. Very strong sherry and tartness up front, then the quality spicy finish. Would definitely recommend for those who enjoy the 12 or 15 year for the sake of trying something slightly different. Probably sticking with the 12 year going forward but this was a fun if not adventurous drink.

Appearance: Amber color, medium oiliness Nose: caramel, alcohol, Palate: marshmallow, cherry pie, wood Aftertaste: no burn, sweet deep citrus, not too long or short

Nose caramel

Same good mouth feel as the 12, 15, and 21 year. Opens with dark fruit notes and quickly gives was to a nice spice. Very enjoyable.