Jefferson's Reserve Old Rum Cask Finish Straight Bourbon: A Sweet, Spicy & Tropical Fusion of Craftsmanship
Embark on an exotic journey of flavor with Jefferson's Reserve Old Rum Cask Finish Straight Bourbon, a captivating and highly sought-after expression from the innovative minds at Jefferson's Bourbon. Known for their adventurous aging experiments, Jefferson's has once again pushed boundaries by expertly marrying the rich depth of Kentucky straight bourbon with the luscious sweetness of premium aged rum.
This distinguished bourbon begins with Jefferson's Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon, a carefully selected blend of "Very Old Very Small Batch" bourbons, often aged for 8 years or more in new charred American white oak casks. Following this initial maturation, the bourbon undergoes a crucial secondary finishing period of approximately 15 months in specially selected old rum casks that previously held Goslings Family Reserve Old Rum, an award-winning aged rum from Bermuda. This unique cask finish infuses the bourbon with distinctive tropical notes, molasses, and a remarkable smoothness, creating a spirit that beautifully bridges the worlds of whiskey and rum. Bottled at a refined 90.2 proof (45.1% ABV), Jefferson's Reserve Old Rum Cask Finish offers a complex, velvety, and undeniably unique tasting experience that delights both bourbon and rum enthusiasts.
Key Characteristics:
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Old Rum Cask Finish: Meticulously finished for 15 months in casks previously holding Goslings Family Reserve Old Rum, imparting unique tropical, molasses, and banana notes.
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"Very Old Very Small Batch" Base: Built upon the rich and complex foundation of Jefferson's Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon.
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Dual Cask Maturation: Initial aging in new charred American oak, followed by a transformative finishing period in rum casks for enhanced complexity and sweetness.
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Unique Flavor Profile: Combines classic bourbon notes with the distinctive character of aged rum, resulting in a harmonious and exotic fusion.
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Refined Proof (90.2 / 45.1% ABV): Delivers a rich, full-bodied experience while maintaining exceptional smoothness.
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Limited Release: As a specialized finished bourbon, it is often a highly sought-after and collectible expression, making it a rare treat.
Tasting Notes:
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Appearance: Deep, inviting amber with a golden sheen.
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Nose: A strong and alluring rum influence immediately presents itself with notes of rich molasses, sweet banana, and a hint of crusty sourdough or fresh-baked bread. Classic bourbon notes of caramel and vanilla subtly intermingle.
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Palate: Rich and rounded, with a velvety mouthfeel. Flavors of luscious caramel corn, warm cinnamon, and creamy vanilla dominate, beautifully complemented by undertones of chocolate ganache and a distinct tropical fruitiness. The rum influence brings a soft sweetness and complexity, akin to aged molasses and exotic fruits.
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Finish: Long, smooth, and incredibly satisfying, leaving lingering notes of sweet vanilla, soft allspice, and a delightful toasted marshmallow sweetness. The finish bridges the bold character of bourbon with the indulgent depth of premium rum.
Awards & Recognition:
Jefferson's Reserve Old Rum Cask Finish Straight Bourbon has garnered significant acclaim for its innovative nature and exceptional quality:
- Gold Medal, 2024 ASCOT Awards
- Silver Medal, 2016 International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC)
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Highly praised by critics and consumers alike, with an average customer rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on numerous reviews (98% recommend the product).
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Recognized for its unique marriage of an award-winning bourbon with the complexity and finish of a reserve-quality rum.
- Often cited as a "knockout of a whiskey" that's "hard to put down" for its unique and delicious flavor profile.
Overall Impression:
Jefferson's Reserve Old Rum Cask Finish Straight Bourbon is a testament to the brand's adventurous spirit and masterful blending. By finishing their already exceptional bourbon in casks that once held acclaimed Goslings Family Reserve Rum, Jefferson's has created a spirit that is both familiar and strikingly new. It offers a unique profile that captures the best of both worlds – the robust character of Kentucky bourbon and the sweet, complex allure of the Caribbean. For those seeking a premium, distinctive, and truly memorable sipping experience, or a standout ingredient for an elevated cocktail, this rum cask-finished bourbon is an absolute must-try.
