Jura Rum Cask

So Jura have now released a rum cask.. I am excited.. O its a finish.. Excitement depleted a little but lets take a look. Jura distillery is located on the Island of Jura, no surprises there then.. Founded in 1810 by Archibald Campbell under the name of Small Isles Distillery.

Jura has always been one of those “love it or hate” it types of whisky from what i can see, many turn their noses at the name whilst some rave. where do i sit ? Good question, and to be honest i am not sure myself, i have had very limited exposure to Jura whisky and although i do posses a few bottles, they are all still sealed.

So i find myself at an interesting point, i know i have tried Jura in the past and although they were the older releases before the re brand i obviously wasn’t excited by them. So why would it be any different now? well a few things have changed within the structure of Whyte And Mackay, Greg Glass is now working with a few of the distilleries and from what i have seen over at Fettercairn i cant help but be a little keen to try this Jura…

Gregg Glass, Whisky Maker & Blender at Whyte & Mackay, commented: “Our Jura Cask Editions have been created to showcase cask types in partnership with the Jura distillery character. The flavours offer interesting interpretations of our classic style, making them ideal for those looking to explore new flavours and finishes. With Jura Rum Cask Finish, the taste experience has been enhanced through the finish to create a beautifully tropical and fruity result. In making this release, we wanted to share a Single Malt that’s easy drinking and great value with compelling character!” 

Jura Rum Cask Finish

Distillery.. Jura

Region.. Islands

Age.. Nas

Abv.. 40%

Casks.. Ex American Bourbon Barrels – Finished in Caribbean Rum Casks

Nose.. Initially quite subdued but then a burst of tropical fruits including Pineapple, Kiwi and even a touch of Peach manages to showcase itself.. A sweetness comes from vanilla fudge and a hint of dark chocolate manages to keep that exotic feel flowing..

Palate.. Soft spices and fruits dance on the tongue whilst a soft sweetness manages to balance out a little bitterness from both chocolate and citrus peels.

Finish.. Gentle and unassuming

Thoughts.. Right, I want to love this whisky, i really do… The nose is quite delightful with its exotic aromas and inviting fruits but the palate just does not live up to the expectation, its very gentle and subdued if i am being honest..

The Abv also lets it down a little and i cant help but think this at 46% could be so much better. What you do get though is a whisky that will be very approachable to the those just starting their journey into whisky!! Its very approachable and easy drinking with no alcohol………. Burn at all.

This is one of those whiskies that is hard to find a lot of positives in for those who drink a lot of whisky, it might not be aimed at us of course but that’s a real shame, increase that Abv please. I will once again say though that this is a perfect whisky to introduce people to whisky, it will also be great on a hot summers day and very probably superb within a cocktail..

Sample kindly provided by Whyte and Mackay..