I’d like to thank Jefferson’s Bourbon and their PR team for providing this review sample with no strings attached.
Last week, I got myself a shipment of whiskey from the PR agency that represents Jefferson’s Bourbon. I’ve enjoyed Jefferson’s in the past but as I was often critical of the cost of the bourbon, I was a bit surprised when they offered me a sample of their new releases. But since “too expensive” is relative, I try to not let that stop me from exploring a new bourbon. Especially when they are providing the sample for review.
Tonight’s two whiskeys are again from the Jefferson’s Ocean lineup. Because we have a lot to cover, let’s just let Jefferson’s tell you what they want you to know about each whiskey and then we can discuss what they taste like.
First, Jefferson’s Ocean Rye:
Welcome aboard rye’s first voyage, joining our Jefferson’s Ocean Aged at Sea family as our 26th voyage. This double-barreled rye whiskey travels the world on ships at sea, blending the bold flavor of Rye with the rich caramelization that comes from the unique sea aging process.
And now Jefferson’s Ocean New York Edition
Prior to landing in New York, the barrels of bourbon traveled around the world sailing through rough and smooth seas while experiencing a wide range of temperatures. When they finished their voyage, they arrived at Manhattan’s first distillery since prohibition. From here, New York’s famous water was used to cut the bourbon to a 98 proof and it is non chill filtered creating a bigger and bolder liquid.
Ok, now that that’s behind us, Let’s see how they taste.
Jefferson's Ocean Rye
Purchase Info: This sample bottle was provided at no cost for review purposes. The suggested retail price is $79.99 for a 750 mL bottle.
Price per Drink (50 mL): $5.33
Details: 48% ABV.
Nose: Wintergreen, cinnamon, bubblegum.
Mouth: Cinnamon spice, nutmeg, bubblegum, and cardboard.
Finish: Medium in warmth and length. Notes of bubble gum, spearmint, and baking spice.
Thoughts: Lots of bubble gum on this one. At least to my palate. This isn't a world-beater by any means, but it isn't bad. It just doesn't align with my palate. I prefer my rye whiskies to have a little more ' 'rye" flavor to them. So I'm neutral on this one. I'd drink it if you were pouring, but probably wouldn't choose it off the shelf if I was pouring
Jefferson's Ocean: New York Edition
Purchase Info: This sample bottle was provided at no cost for review purposes. They did not provided a suggested retail price but the Bourbon Review is reporting it as $99 for a 750 mL.
Price per Drink (50 mL): $6.67
Details: 49% ABV. Cut to proof with New York water.
Nose: Cinnamon, vanilla, red berries, and hints of oak and wintergreen.
Mouth: Spicy cinnamon, red fruit, brown sugar, wintergreen, dried grain, and raw almond.
Finish: On the longer side of medium length. Notes of nutmeg, wintergreen, vanilla, and cinnamon.
Thoughts: I'm very pleasantly surprised by this one. I'm not usually a huge fan of Jefferson's Bourbon, but this one is pretty good. It has a nice spiciness. Unlike the other Jefferson's Bourbons I've had recently, this doesn't stray too far away from the stereotypical "Bourbon" flavor profile. I usually describe Jefferson's as a "change of pace" bourbon because it is a bit different than the other bourbons on the market. This needs no such disclaimer. I'm a fan. Though the $100 price point of the Jefferson's Ocean New York Edition release does leave a bit to be desired. Especially if you are on a dogsitter’s budget like I am.
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