Jameson Caskmates is an intriguing release. Having sent some of their casks to the local craft stout brewers at Franciscan Well, the casks were returned to Midleton where they were subsequently used to give a stout finish to Jameson!
We tasted it before it was available in the UK when we visited Cork just before St. Patrick's Day 2015, and we know that some of the fine folk at Irish Distillers were worried that it may be seen as a bit of a gimmick. Perhaps to an extent it is, but more importantly, it works - a worthwhile experiment that's produced a unique and interesting Irish whiskey.
There's still cut grass and some fruit alongside delicious oily pot still character, but things are different here too. Is it sweeter? A different sweetness perhaps, more wood spice plus chocolate liqueur. A shift of emphasis.
Orchard fruits, great mouthfeel but the vanilla cream is less prominent, it's more fragrant (hoppy?) and floral on the palate with a touch of bitterness.
Again familiar, but different, that different complexion of spice with chocolate from the nose lingers briefly.
An interesting twist on an old favourite, and a great gift for Irish whiskey and stout fans alike!
Hands down a unique and singularly great whiskey. Other than Greenspot and Redbreast I tend to steer clear of Irish because they're too sweet for me but this is on another level. Creamy, with a delicious spicy, bitter cocoa finish. Superb. Can't believe its so cheap. You'd normally pay a lot more for something of this quality.
Bring me more!!!!!
I'm on my third of fourth bottle, and I still get surprised how good this expression really is. I'm stunned that this is non chill filtered, because there is a lot going on. I especially love the coconut, chocolate and vanilla combo, both on the nose and palate.
Really smooth and easy to drink. If you enjoy a peaty whiskey this isn't for you. I serve to friends that aren't regular whisky drinkers because it is so easy to enjoy.
Best whisky ever. Very smooth
