Jefferson's Ocean Aged At Sea Wheated Mash Bill Kentucky Straight Bourbon - Voyage 29: A Gentle Giant Shaped by the Waves
Embark on an unparalleled tasting adventure with Jefferson's Ocean Aged At Sea Wheated Mash Bill Kentucky Straight Bourbon - Voyage 29. This highly anticipated expression from Jefferson's Bourbon marries their groundbreaking "Ocean Aged" maturation process with the softer, sweeter profile of a wheated mash bill, creating a truly unique and sought-after bourbon experience.
Voyage 29 of Jefferson's Ocean Wheated embarked on a challenging yet ultimately rewarding journey. After initial aging for at least four years on land in traditional charred American oak barrels, these special barrels, containing a mash bill where wheat replaces rye as the secondary grain, were loaded onto ships. The voyage, characterized by periods of rough seas in the Western Pacific and calm coastal waters around Asia, exposed the bourbon to constant motion, dramatic temperature shifts, and the pervasive salty ocean air. This dynamic environment "hyper-ages" the whiskey, drawing out more sugars and flavors from the oak, while the softer wheat grain allows the unique maritime influences to shine through without the spice of rye. The result is a bourbon that is exceptionally smooth, rich, and mellow, with a distinctive character shaped by its global travels. Bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV), Voyage 29 offers a nuanced and captivating profile for the discerning bourbon enthusiast.
Key Characteristics:
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Wheated Mash Bill: Utilizes wheat instead of rye, resulting in a softer, sweeter, and more approachable bourbon that allows the unique "Ocean Aged" characteristics to be more pronounced.
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Unique Ocean Aging: Barrels undergo a transformative journey at sea, with constant agitation, fluctuating temperatures, and sea air imparting distinctive flavors. Voyage 29 experienced varied conditions, from rough seas to tranquil coastal periods, which further shaped its profile.
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"Hyper-Aged" Profile: The dynamic maritime conditions accelerate the aging process, intensifying flavors and creating a rich, complex bourbon.
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Kentucky Straight Bourbon: Begins as a high-quality Kentucky bourbon, ensuring a solid foundation of craftsmanship.
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Limited "Voyage" Release: Each voyage is unique, making Voyage 29 a distinct and collectible expression, telling the story of its specific journey.
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Smooth & Approachable: The wheated mash bill contributes to an exceptionally smooth and gentle character, even with the intensified flavors from sea aging.
Tasting Notes (Specific to Voyage 29):
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Appearance: Deep, inviting amber with golden hues.
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Nose: Rich aromas of fresh baked bread, complex notes of vanilla and caramel, with delicate hints of citrus and spice. The characteristic subtle hint of sea air is also present.
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Palate: Smooth and velvety, offering a gentle yet profound richness. Flavors of toasted caramel, sweet vanilla, and butterscotch are prominent. The softer wheat allows a beautiful balance, with subtle notes of allspice and a gentle white pepper. A delicate hint of sea salt and brine complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Finish: Long, well-rounded, and exceptionally gentle. Lingering notes of oak, nutmeg, pecans, and even a touch of sourdough bread contribute to a complex yet soft conclusion.
Awards & Recognition:
While specific awards for every individual "Voyage" of Jefferson's Ocean Wheated are not always extensively publicized, the series generally, and the Wheated expressions in particular, receive high acclaim:
- The Jefferson's Ocean series is highly regarded for its innovation and unique flavor profiles.
- The Wheated expression often receives praise for its enhanced smoothness and how it allows the maritime influence to truly shine.
- Consumers and critics frequently cite Jefferson's Ocean Wheated as a distinct and memorable bourbon experience.
Overall Impression:
Jefferson's Ocean Aged At Sea Wheated Mash Bill Kentucky Straight Bourbon - Voyage 29 is a captivating testament to the power of unconventional aging. By combining the inherent sweetness and smoothness of a wheated bourbon with the dynamic influences of a global maritime journey, Jefferson's has created a truly exceptional spirit. Voyage 29, with its specific log of rough and calm seas, delivers a beautifully balanced and nuanced profile that is both adventurous and remarkably approachable. For the bourbon connoisseur seeking a unique and unforgettable experience, this wheated "Ocean" expression offers a taste of the extraordinary.
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