Jameson 18 Year Old Limited Reserve
43% ABV/86 Proof
$85 to $95
Widely available in limited quantities
What the Distillery Says:
A true original, Jameson 18 Year Old Limited Reserve is an exceptionally balanced whiskey and is the elder statesman of the Jameson Family. Its mellow, complex taste and lingering finale of wood, spice and toffee have been deftly created by the Master Blender; his hand-picked selection of no fewer than three exquisitely poised whiskeys serving as the light, shade and foreground used to craft this unique blend.
Dutifully matured for no less than 18 years in a combination of bourbon and oloroso sherry casks, it’s given a final finish in fresh fill American bourbon barrels. Since its debut in 2002, stocks of Jameson 18 Year Old Limited Reserve have been, as its name suggests, limited. So any opportunity to enjoy this connoisseurs’ choice whiskey, in its individually numbered bottles, should be savoured.
Nose – Aromatic oils with a touch of wood, spicy toffee.
Palate – Wonderfully mellow and smooth, a mouthful of complex flavours – fudge, toffee, spice, hints of wood and leather, vanilla and a gentle sherry nuttiness.
Finish – A long, lingering finish carries the theme of the wood, spice and toffee right through to the end.
What Richard Says:
Nose: Honey, fresh grass, and sherry notes. After letting it sit I find it a bit oily with a buttery sweetness.
Palate: Very rich and slightly oily. Spice, vanilla, and delicate oak.
Finish: Slow and soothing. A little spicy with some of that buttery sweetness from the nose.
Comments: Jameson doesn’t monkey around too much with their range from expression to expression. By that I mean it’s easy to connect them and find an overall Jameson profile. That’s comforting and refreshing with the explosion of small runs and new finishes that while good, can sometimes mask the true nature of the whiskey. This particular express is insanely drinkable stuff. You really need to try it.
Rating: Must Try