Redbreast 21 vs. 27: A Spirited Debate

Last updated on August 22nd, 2024

Having worked in an Irish pub for several years, I’ve always been a bit of an Irish whiskey enthusiast. Naturally, Redbreast was a familiar fellow, but the top option only extended up to luxurious 21 year old.

However, I recently had the chance to sample the lofty 27 year old at a local tasting evening and wanted to share my thoughts comparing Redbreast 21 and 27. 

Lucky me.

Let’s dive in.

Redbreast 21 vs. 27: Quick-Look Comparison

A closer look at Redbreast 21

For most of us mere mortals, the Redbreast 21 is already an exquisite opportunity. Hands down, this juice is some of the finest to grace your lips should you get the chance.

Having been matured in ex-bourbon and first fill Sherry casks (Oloroso) for 21 years, you can expect sweet and dried fruit notes throughout. Let’s see…

On the nose, Redbreast 21 greets you with a delightful aroma. Tropical fruits, especially pineapple and a hint of mango are evident. There’s also a gentle nutty undertone, adding a layer of complexity.

And then, regarding texture, Redbreast 21 is smooth, almost comforting. It’s not overly thick, but it certainly makes its presence known.

On the flavour front, Redbreast 21 is consistent and well-balanced. The tropical fruits detected in its aroma are present in its taste, complemented by a mild spice kick. It’s a harmonious blend, neither too sweet nor too spicy.

Are there any similar whiskies to the 21-year-old?

For those who’ve developed a liking for Redbreast 21, Green Spot is another worthy contender. It shares some similarities that fans of Redbreast 21 might appreciate. And while they are indeed akin to one another, I have a Redbreast 15 vs. Redbreast 12 review that you might want to check out.

With an alcohol content of 46% ABV, Redbreast 21 is robust but not overwhelming. It strikes a balance, making it suitable for both casual sips and special occasions.

Now, you may ask: is it worth the money? 

Value is always in the eye of the beholder. Given the quality, depth, and experience that Redbreast 21 delivers, many enthusiasts believe it offers good value for its price at £253/$331. But as always, personal preferences play a significant role.

A closer look at Redbreast 27

The pinnacle of the Redbreast permanent line-up, the 27 year old is an end-game bottling from the Midleton distillery. Certainly not your everyday whiskey, this beauty has been matured in bourbon, sherry and port casks.

On the nose, Redbreast 27 offers a rich and inviting aroma. There’s an evident presence of dried fruits, think figs and raisins, complemented by a hint of toasted oak. As you delve deeper, there’s a subtle undertone of dark chocolate, making the nose both layered and intriguing.

On the mouth, the texture of Redbreast 27 is something to be lauded. It’s velvety, with a certain weightiness that feels substantial without being overpowering. It’s the kind of whiskey that demands you take a moment to truly experience its mouthfeel.

Flavour-wise, Redbreast 27 is a symphony. Those dried fruits detected in the aroma come to the forefront, joined by notes of vanilla and a touch of spice. There’s also a hint of that dark chocolate, adding a slight bitterness that balances out the sweetness beautifully.

Moreover, Redbreast 27 comes in at a robust 54.6% ABV. It’s strong, reflecting its age and depth, but it’s not just about the alcohol content. The strength complements the flavours, making each sip a full-bodied experience.

However, given its age and the complexity it offers, Redbreast 27 doesn’t come cheap at a hefty £440/$577. It’s undoubtedly a premium product with a price tag to match. However, if you’re looking for the top-tier Redbreast experience, this is quite literally as good as it gets.

Comparing Redbreast 21 vs. 27

Starting with the nose, Redbreast 21 greets you with a delightful tropical aroma. There’s a clear presence of pineapple, perhaps a hint of mango, and a subtle backdrop of nuttiness. 

On the other hand, the 27-year-old variant offers a richer experience. The dried fruits, especially figs and raisins, are more pronounced. Add to that a touch of toasted oak and an intriguing dark chocolate note, and you have a more layered and complex profile.

When it comes to mouthfeel, the 21 is smooth and approachable. It’s the kind of whiskey that’s easy on the palate, making it perfect for both newcomers and seasoned drinkers. The 27, however, demands a bit more attention. Its velvety and weighty texture speaks of its age and the depth of flavours it houses.

In terms of flavour, the 21 continues its tropical theme, with those fruity notes being evident in the taste, balanced out by a gentle spice. The 27, true to its nose, brings forward flavours of dried fruits, complemented by vanilla, a hint of spice, and a touch of dark chocolate. It’s a deeper, more intricate dance of flavours, reflecting its extended maturation.

Discussing ABV, the Redbreast 21 sits at a respectable 46%. It’s strong enough to make its presence felt but doesn’t overpower it. The 27, with its 54.6% ABV, is bolder, mirroring its age and the complexity it brings to the table.

Now, the 21, while not exactly a budget buy of £253/$331, offers a balance of quality and cost. The 27, with its added years and depth, naturally commands a higher price of £440/$577. It’s an investment, tailored for those who are looking for an elevated whiskey experience. But if you take a closer look, would you still consider Redbreast 21 vs. 27 an investment when it’s actually almost half the price of the former? 

Lastly, when considering how to enjoy them, whether neat or on the rocks, the 21 is versatile. While many would vouch for sipping it neat to appreciate its nuances truly, it can also be enjoyed on the rocks. Personally, I’d give 21 a cube. The 27, given its depth, is often best-savoured neat. 

However, for those who find its higher ABV a touch too strong, a single ice cube might just do the trick, opening up its flavours without diluting its essence.

Food Pairings

Now, this part shouldn’t be skipped out. After all, when we talk about distinguished whiskeys like Redbreast 21 vs. 27, food pairing becomes even more pertinent.

Beginning with starters, the Redbreast 21, with its tropical fruit undertones, beautifully complements lighter dishes. Imagine pairing it with smoked salmon, delicate cheeses, or even a crisp salad adorned with a citrusy dressing. The whiskey’s notes can enhance the freshness of these dishes. 

On the other hand, the richer profile of Redbreast 27 is more suited for robust starters. A charcuterie board laden with aged cheeses, cured meats, and olives feels right at home with the Redbreast 27. The whiskey’s dried fruit notes echo the savoury flavours of the board, creating a harmonious blend.

Moving on to main courses, the balanced nature of Redbreast 21 offers versatility. It pairs seamlessly with grilled white meats like chicken or turkey, especially if there’s a hint of sweetness in the accompanying sauce. Seafood dishes with a touch of spice also find a friend in this whiskey. 

The 27, given its depth, is more attuned to heartier mains. Think along the lines of roasted lamb, succulent beef steaks, or rich, comforting stews. The whiskey’s inherent dark chocolate and oak nuances stand tall against the robust flavours of these dishes, neither overshadowing nor being overshadowed.

When it’s time for desserts, Redbreast 21’s slightly spicy and tropical profile makes it a companion for fruit-based desserts. Whether it’s a meticulously crafted fruit tart, a tangy lemon cheesecake, or even a humble fruit salad, the 21 adds an extra layer of flavour. 

The 27, with its richer notes of dried fruits and dark chocolate, is a dream partner for desserts like chocolate lava cake, creamy tiramisu, or a dense bread pudding. Each sip of the whiskey accentuates the dessert’s sweetness while introducing its own layers of complexity.

Beyond traditional pairings, both these whiskeys have other uses. They can shine in high-end cocktails, like a classic Old Fashioned or a Whiskey Sour. Culinary-wise, they can add depth to sauces or marinades.

Redbreast 21 vs. 27: Final Thoughts

After countless hours of sipping, savouring, and contemplation, I’ve distilled my thoughts impartially into a definitive scoring table. 

This table aims to shed light on which whiskey, Redbreast 21 or 27, truly stands a notch above the other.

Best	Redbreast 21	Redbreast 27
Colour	6	7
Aroma/Nose	6	8
Mouthfeel	5	6
Taste/Palate	6	5
Finish	6	5
Total	29	31

Redbreast 21 vs. 27: Author’s Pick

I finally gave it a go, putting Redbreast 21 head-to-head with Redbreast 27. Using my trusty scorecard, I rated them on everything from colour to finish. 

Colour

When I looked at Redbreast 21, its colour was unassuming. It didn’t shout for attention, but there was a quiet confidence about it. On the flip side, Redbreast 27 displayed a deeper hue. 

It’s like the whisky was subtly hinting at the extra years it spent maturing, absorbing more from its casks. Both have their appeal, but they certainly set different moods right from the first glance.

Aroma

Taking a whiff of Redbreast 21, the aroma was upfront. It reminded me of seasoned wood, and there was a certain familiarity to it. 

Now, Redbreast 27 was like a different kind of whisky. The aroma was richer, with the seasoned wood being more pronounced and a hint of dark fruits lurking in the background. It felt like Redbreast 27 had more stories to share, just through its scent.

Mouthfeel

On the palate, Redbreast 21 was steadfast. It had a firm texture, smooth and even, making its presence known without any fuss. 

Redbreast 27, however, gave me a bit more to think about. It felt richer, with a slight oiliness suggesting a layered experience. It was like Redbreast 27 was challenging me to explore it further.

Palate

When it comes to taste, Redbreast 21 truly shines. The notes of vanilla and dried fruits are evident, creating a harmonious and well-rounded profile. It has a clear and balanced taste, making every sip a delightful experience.

Redbreast 27, on the other hand, seems to grapple with its complexity. While the dark fruit notes are pronounced, there’s a touch of spice that, instead of complementing, somewhat muddles its profile. The influence of the ruby port casks, while adding depth, seems to have introduced a layer that not everyone might appreciate.

This makes Redbreast 21 take the lead, offering a more cohesive and enjoyable palate experience.

Finish 

Another offensive turnaround for Redbreast 21 as it concludes its symphony with a finish that’s both clean and memorable. It leaves a lasting impression, wrapping up its profile with precision and clarity. Each sip concludes with a sense of satisfaction, making you anticipate the next. 

Redbreast 27, however, seems to overstay its welcome a bit. While the dried fruits and subtle spiciness are evident, they linger a tad too long, making the finish feel a bit drawn out. It’s like a story that, while intriguing, takes a few extra pages to conclude.

After diving deep into the world of Redbreast, it’s clear that both the 21 and 27 are like siblings with their own quirks. While Redbreast 27 is the reliable elder, always hitting the right notes, Redbreast 21 is the adventurous younger one, sometimes a tad too eager to impress. 

But in the grand scheme of things, isn’t variety the spice of life?