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!
Just opened a bottle tonight and was very pleased to find that it lives up to the hype. A most pleasant expression of the brand, no question, it's a keeper and will always have a place on my shelf!
In picked up a bottle of the stout edition 2 days ago, and wished I picked up a few more. For the price, this is absolutely beautiful and leaves you wanting glass after glass. In would highly recommend this offering. You won't be disappointed.
I do like to have this jameson
One of the smoothest I've had the pleasure of drinking.
two thumbs up! Love the subtle hint of bitterness!
