Jameson Caskmates Stout Edition Release 2020
Nose
The first impression is surprisingly lively and green, almost as if you were walking across an Irish pasture while hop fields bloom in the distance. The floral notes are clearly present, accompanied by a hoppy freshness that actually reminds you of a well-brewed craft beer. Then the citrus notes come into play, bright and inviting, like freshly cut lemon peel on a summer morning.
Taste
The Jameson Caskmates Stout Edition is remarkably mild on the palate, almost restrained. A slight hint of roasted malt is noticeable, but it remains subtle and quickly fades into the background. The citrus notes that were so promising on the nose are also found on the palate, but in a much more subdued form. The whiskey glides smoothly over the tongue without any major highs or lows. The texture is soft and accessible, which certainly makes it attractive to beginners. However, we miss the spice, depth and, above all, the characteristic stout notes that one would expect from a finish in former beer casks. Unfortunately, the promised interplay between whisky and beer is absent on the palate or so cleverly hidden that even experienced palates struggle to identify it.
Finish
The finish brings some interesting moments after all. Coffee notes emerge, accompanied by a slight bitterness that is actually reminiscent of dark stout. It is as if the beer heritage of the cask only wants to reveal itself at the very end. A subtle oak spice joins in and gives the finish a certain structure.
Thoughts
The Jameson Caskmates Stout Edition Release 2020 is a whiskey with two faces. The nose promises much more than the palate can ultimately deliver. This is a shame, because the idea behind this whiskey is great and the olfactory experience is thoroughly convincing. However, the actual influence of the stout remains so subtle that it is barely perceptible.
Nevertheless, this Irish blended whiskey has its merits. It is highly recommended for those new to the world of whiskey. Its mildness and accessibility make it a perfect entry-level whiskey that will not overwhelm or deter anyone. It is ideal for convivial evenings where an uncomplicated, drinkable whiskey is required. It can also play to its strengths as a base for cocktails or long drinks.
Rating: 69/100 - Good (Marcel: 68 | Sascha: 70)
Value for Money: 4/5 - Good
FAQ: The Most Common Questions
❓ How does Jameson Caskmates Stout Edition differ from IPA Edition?
👉 While the Stout Edition is said to develop a rather mild, slightly bitter and coffee-heavy profile using former stout beer casks, the IPA Edition typically has more hoppy and citrusy notes. Both share the basic Jameson DNA, but differ in the intensity of the beer influences. The IPA variant tends to be more tangy, while the Stout version is creamier and darker.
❓ What does the stout cask finish do to the whisky technically?
👉 Finishing in former stout casks should theoretically impart aromas of roasted malt, coffee, dark chocolate and a slight bitterness to the whisky. The casks release residual sugar and characteristic beer notes, while the oak itself adds additional spice. The duration of the finishing process is crucial: the longer it lasts, the more intense the influence. In the case of Jameson Caskmates, this finishing seems to have been rather short.