Jameson 18 Years Limited Reserve is one of Jameson’s regular premium releases that utilizes three different cask types to bring out the unique flavors and aromas that exist in this whiskey. The combination of ex-Bourbon, ex-Sherry and First-Fill ex-Bourbon casks creates something unique and interesting in this whiskey which I’ll let Jameson expound upon a bit for me.
In Jameson’s Words: Jameson 18 Years
“Matured for 18 years in hand-selected oak casks from Europe and America, this rare whiskey is finished in first-fill bourbon barrels. This rite of passage introduces subtle traces of vanilla to an exceptionally balanced, mellow whiskey with a lingering finale of wood, spice and toffee. An elder statesman of our portfolio, each bottle of this unique whiskey is individually numbered.”
Honestly, the only way they could make the Jameson 18 Years any better would be to deliver it at a higher proof (at least 46%) and non-chill filtered. I think leaving those oils in there would enhance this whiskey and take it to the next level.
The more whiskey I try the more I realize how important that slightly higher proof and NCF delivery is. At this point I have a hard time purchasing anything that doesn’t come bottled that way. Anyways, off the soap box and on to the Jameson 18 Years review.
Jameson 18 Years Info
Region: Midleton, Ireland
Distiller: Midleton
Blend: Malted Barley and Grain Whiskey
Cask: ex-Bourbon, ex-Sherry and First-Fill Bourbon
Age: 18 Years
ABV: 40%
Price: $110
Jameson 18 Years Review
EYE
Honey
NOSE
Fruit, sherry, honey, malt, dark fruit, caramel and a touch of spice. A welcomed aroma.
PALATE
Fruit, sherry, honey, malt, dark fruit, caramel and a touch of spice and vanilla. Tasty as can be, I’m enjoying it quite a bit.
FINISH
Long fade of grain, dark sweets, fruit and spice.
BALANCE, BODY & FEEL
Decent sense of balance, medium body and a soft silken feel.
OVERALL
Jameson 18 Years is a lovely expression of Jameson. It’s full of sweet and slightly earthy aromas and flavors that compliment each other nicely. The finishing in first fill bourbon seems to impart more of the caramel and vanilla tones while there’s enough sherry influence in the normally honied fruit profile to make it quickly noticeable. It’s a whiskey I’d love to drink any time.
SCORE: 88/100 (B+, consumed at a tasting)
