16-07-2025
2025's Best Irish Pot Still Whiskeys, According To BevTest
The Redbreast Pot Still Whiskey range were among the top whiskeys at the BevTest 2025 Judging Photo, J Micallef
Irish pot still whiskey is in a golden age, and the 2025 Beverage Testing Institute judging shows that. Known for its strict standards and expert panel, BevTest awarded four Irish single pot still expressions with coveted Platinum medals, each scoring 96 points or higher.
An additional 18 pot still whiskeys won Gold, demonstrating that Ireland's most traditional whiskey style continues to elevate the standards for flavor, complexity, and craftsmanship. From bold cask-strength releases to refined age-statement classics, these award-winning whiskeys are redefining what it means to enjoy Irish whiskey.
A rare ultra-aged pot still release, matured in a selection of bourbon and oloroso sherry hogsheads. The Redbreast 27 YO has consistently been recognized as the top Irish Pot Still Whiskey at international spirit competitions. With 97/100 points, it was awarded a Platinum medal and was the highest-rated pot still whiskey.
The whiskey is incredibly aromatic with layered complexity, featuring dried figs, dark fruit, golden raisins, orange marmalade, seasoned oak, and various wood spices. It's smooth and flavorful on the palate, presenting flavors of candied ginger, dried dark fruit, chocolate, chai spices, and baked pear. The finish is long, sweet, and rich, with lingering notes of cinnamon, leather, molasses, and sherry-laced fruits.
The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as expressing 'aromas of spiced apple, maple oatmeal, and grilled spiced banana bread. The palate features flavors of dried apples, cinnamon biscuits, and pepper jelly. Massively dense, punchy, and powerful.'
Crafted at Midleton Micro-distillery, this experimental pot still whiskey explores different cask types and finishes. It received a score of 96 out of 100 points, earning a Platinum medal.
The whiskey offers aromas of lemon zest, barley sugar, and wildflowers. It is rich and textured on the palate, revealing flavors of orchard fruit, mint, and various wood spices. The finish is long and fresh, with lingering herbal and citrus notes.
The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'eggnog, dark chocolate, and buttercream frosting. The palate presents flavors of maple syrup, caramelized bananas, cinnamon, cocoa, brioche, and pie crust. Rich, decadent, and exceptionally balanced, this takes you on a journey from handcrafted pastry and fresh pumpkin to notes of dried heirloom pears, pie crust, and toasted pistachios; remarkable.' Blue Spot 7-Year-Old Cask Strength, 58.4% ABV, 750 ml. $90
A premium sibling to Green Spot, this whiskey features a higher ABV and a richer oak flavor. It received a score of 96/100 and earned a Platinum medal.
The whiskey offers aromas of ripe pear, oak spice, and toasted barley. It's rich and smooth on the palate, revealing flavors of orange marmalade, fresh orchard fruits, cooked cereal, and various wood spices. The finish is long and sweet, with lingering notes of honey, orchard fruit, and seasoned oak.
The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as expressing aromas of 'Bananas Foster, maple nut fudge, and malted chocolate milkshake. The palate features similar flavors along with spiced floral honey, caramelized fruits, and pepper. A monumentally flavorful and warming full-strength Irish whiskey with a seemingly endless finish; impressive.'
Two shot glasses of Irish whiskey. getty Redbreast 21-Year-Old Single Pot Still Whiskey, 46% ABV, 750 ml. $230
A complex and expressive whiskey, aged in various casks including both bourbon and sherry. The 21-year-old received a score of 96/100 and earned a Platinum medal.
The whisky has aromas of orange oil and fresh orange peel, walnut, golden raisins, cinnamon, and nutmeg. It is rich on the palate, offering notes of spiced Christmas cake, dark caramel, and baked orchard fruits. The finish is long and warming, with lingering hints of wood spices and seasoned oak.
The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of 'wildflower honey, white roses, and almond paste. The palate offers flavors of plum pudding, spiced pear, and buttered soda bread. A beautiful nose leads to a warm, lightly spiced palate and a long, balanced finish – this will make an excellent cigar pairing.' Redbreast 12-Year-Old Cask Strength, 57.5% Abv, 750 ml. $107
A benchmark pot still whisky. The cask strength version offers a more intense and flavorful take on the 12 YO Redbreast, with a higher ABV impact. It scored 95/100 points and was awarded a gold medal.
The whiskey offers aromas of orchard fruit, toasted cereal, and bold wood spices. On the palate, it is flavorful and rich, revealing juicy apples, honey, cooked cereal, and brown sugar. The finish is long and intense, with lingering orchard fruits and spices.
The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as exhibiting aromas of 'dark chocolate peanut butter, peach cobbler, and S'mores. The palate showcased flavors of brioche caramel rolls, brownie corners, and spiced pecans. Decadent and spicy, delivering decadent layers of flavor that are remarkably smooth and silky, opens up significantly with a bit of water - would make a world-class Blue Blazer cocktail.' Powers Three Swallow Release Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, 40% ABV, 750 ml. $53
Powers Three Swallow is another perennial gold medalist at international spirit competitions. It scored 95/100 points and was awarded a gold medal.
The whiskey offers rich aromas of citrus zest, barley sugar, and warm spices. On the palate, it presents tangy, zesty fruits complemented by honey and black pepper. The finish is long and lively, with lingering notes of mixed fruits and spices.
The Jameson Heritage Centre in Midleton Co. Cork, 12 miles east of Cork City on the main Cork Waterford Road. getty Midleton Very Rare Barry Crockett Legacy, 46% ABV, 750 ml. $93
A luxury annual release honoring legendary master distiller Barry Crockett. It was awarded a gold medal and scored 94/100 points.
The whiskey offers aromas of sweet, honeyed malt, toasted hazelnut, white pepper, and nougat. It's rich and flavorful on the palate, revealing flavors of creamy lemon tart, nut brittle, marzipan, and subtle oak. The finish is long and indulgent, with lingering notes of cooked cereal, vanilla, and almonds.
The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as revealing aromas of 'spiced dried fruits, nutty coffee cake, and peppery Mexican chocolate. The palate presents similar flavors along with hints of root beer float, crème brûlée with sautéed mango, and a variety of baking spices. It is a remarkably spicy and layered Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey with excellent flavor integration.' Yellow Spot 12-Year-Old, 46% ABV, 750 ml. $92
The whiskey is matured in bourbon, sherry, and Malaga (a sweet dessert-style wine) casks and aged for 12 years. The whiskey scored 94 points and won a gold medal.
The whiskey offers aromas of stone fruit, honeycomb, and marzipan. It feels rich and viscous on the palate, highlighting ripe peach, Crème Brûlée, and candied orange zest. The finish is full-bodied and initially sweet, with lingering notes of roasted nuts and wood spices.
The BevTest Judging Panel described the whiskey as having aromas of caramel apples, baking spices, and cinnamon raisin toast. The palate offers flavors of melted butter, white pepper, pineapple, caramel, and honey, along with notes of Sherry, nuts, and tropical fruits.
Also winning gold medals, all scoring 94/100 points were Green Spot Leoville Barton Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey; Redbreast 12-Year-Old Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey; Redbreast 10-Year-Old Distillery Edition Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey; Powers John's Lane 12-Year-Old Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey and Powers John's Lane 12-Year-Old Cask Strength Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey.
Scoring 93/100 points and winning gold medals were Jameson Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, Green Spot Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, Green Spot Chateau Montelena Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, and Redbreast Iberian Series Lustau Edition Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey.
Red Spot 15-Year-Old Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, Redbreast Cuatro Barriles Edition Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, and Redbreast 18-Year-Old Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey received Gold medals with 93/100 points. In comparison, Redbreast 15-Year-Old Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey earned a Gold medal with 91/100 points. Redbreast Pedro Ximenez Edition Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey scored 90 points and a Gold medal.
From the legendary depth of Redbreast 27-Year-Old to the innovation of Method and Madness, the 2025 BevTest results showcase the unmatched range and quality of Irish pot still whiskey. With expressions that span from bold and spicy to elegant and dessert-like, these whiskeys reflect a dynamic category rooted in heritage but driven by innovation. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or new to the world of pot still, these medalists are the best place to start—and they prove that Irish whiskey deserves a prime spot on every connoisseur's shelf. More From Forbes
