Jefferson’s seem to keep on serving up these interesting American whiskies.
This is a Bourbon, but unlike the overwhelming majority of Bourbons, it has experienced a finishing period. After its initial (and legally required) maturation in new American oak barrels, the whiskey is finished French oak former Californian-Cabernet-Sauvignon barrels from the illustrious Groth winery.
As a result, this is a rich and complex whiskey, which has a greater depth than many Bourbons. The classic Bourbon notes of toffee, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and bright oak are all here, but they are matched by lovely black cherry, strawberry and spice flavours.
The whiskey benefits from being bottled at 45.1% ABV, giving it a warming character.
Jefferson’s Groth Reserve would make a great stepping stone for any fan of sherried malt whiskies looking to get into the world of Bourbon.