Who makes it?
From Humble Beginnings to Whiskey Giants
Every sip of Jameson, Redbreast, and Powers is a taste of history. The story begins in the 1790s, at the site of what would become the Midleton Distillery, a place of constant change and rebirth. What started as a modest wool mill on the banks of the Dungourney River was eventually purchased by three visionary brothers in 1825. Their ambition was immense, and they set out to transform the property into a state-of-the-art distillery.
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A Distillery Built for Legends
The Murphy brothers didn’t just build a distillery—they built a monument to Irish whiskey. They installed a massive undershot water wheel to power their operation, which was later replaced in 1852 by the very iron wheel that stands on the grounds to this day. But their most impressive feat was the creation of a massive 31,618-gallon pot still—so large it had to be built on-site with the distillery constructed around it. This single pot still remains the largest ever built and is a testament to the Murphys' ambition and the revolutionary changes sweeping through the Irish whiskey industry. This era of innovation saw the distillery's output soar, with nearly 200 people working to create what would become some of the world’s most celebrated spirits.
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Forging a Legacy, One Dram at a Time
By the mid-1800s, the Irish whiskey industry faced a period of upheaval. To survive and thrive, the head of the company, James Murphy, proposed a bold plan: unite the local distilleries. In 1867, the Cork Distilleries Company (CDC) was formed, bringing together the best whiskey makers in the region, including the Midleton Distillery. This spirit of collaboration and resilience is a core part of the heritage of Jameson, Redbreast, and Powers.
When you enjoy a glass from our collection, you’re not just tasting a finely crafted whiskey; you’re experiencing over two centuries of dedication, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of perfection. This is more than just a drink; it's a piece of history.
Discover the legacy in every bottle. Explore our selection of premium Jameson, Redbreast, and Powers whiskeys and find your new favourite.
How is it made?
Redbreast 21 Year Old is made from a mash of malted and unmalted barley, triple distilled in copper pot stills, and finally, matured in a combination of American bourbon barrels and first fill Spanish oloroso sherry butts.
Using a style of Pot Still whiskey reflective of the Midleton Distillery tradition, Redbreast 21 Year Old Whiskey represents the ultimate expression of Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey. The 21 year Redbreast whiskey ageing process introduces new levels of depth, flavour and taste, creating a complex and rewarding whiskey. Abundantly aromatic and fruitful, and produced in very limited quantities, this whiskey is a joy to behold in each and every bottle
What does it taste like?
Remarkable aroma spanning fresh tropical fruits, nuts and rich dried fruit. Soft vanilla, toasted oak, sherry nuttiness with a dusting of spices. Luscious fleshy fruit notes complete the silky mouthfeel. Lingers, seemingly forever, with oak and an assortment of spices and then, the final bow from barley – where it all began.
