Jameson Caskmates IPA Edition Release 2017
Jameson is one of the world’s most renowned Irish whiskey brands, and the Caskmates series has become an exciting playground for experimentation. The concept: classic Jameson undergoes additional maturation in barrels that previously held craft beer – in this case, an India Pale Ale (IPA). The goal is to add fresh, hoppy notes to the smooth Irish whiskey. But how does that translate into flavor? Let’s find out.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Right from the first sniff, the Caskmates IPA Edition feels refreshing and vibrant. A noticeable citrus aroma emerges, accompanied by green apples and a subtle, underlying hint of hops. Despite these additional accents, the familiar Jameson DNA remains intact – mild, light, and inviting.
Palate
On the palate, the whiskey delivers an unexpected spiciness. Alongside Jameson’s characteristic smoothness, delicate garden herbs appear, blending with a subtle hop presence to create an intriguing nuance. A touch of bitter oak adds depth without compromising the whiskey’s inherent Irish lightness. It’s an interesting twist on the classic, though not a radical reinvention.
Finish
The finish is rather short but pleasantly warming. Hints of ginger bring a gentle heat before ripe apple and citrus notes take over. A light touch of oak lingers in the background.
Thoughts
Marcel 72/100
Jameson Caskmates IPA Edition surprises with its lively freshness and hoppy accents, giving the classic a fun twist. It’s not a dramatic transformation, but just right for relaxed evenings when you simply want to enjoy without any fuss.
Sascha 71/100
The IPA Edition from Jameson presents itself as a well-balanced variation with clear structure and subtle spice, respecting the mild base character. The integration of hop and citrus notes is successful yet restrained, providing a delicate complexity without overwhelming the palate.
Value for Money: Good
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How does maturation in IPA casks influence the flavor of the Jameson Caskmates IPA Edition Release 2017?
Maturation in casks previously filled with India Pale Ale (IPA) imparts a fresh, hoppy note to the Jameson Caskmates IPA Edition, with distinct citrus and herbal aromas that complement the mild and light character of Jameson without overpowering it.
Is the Jameson Caskmates IPA Edition Release 2017 a single malt or blended whiskey?
The Jameson Caskmates IPA Edition Release 2017 is a blended Irish whiskey, like all Jameson whiskeys, combining various malted and unmalted barley malts that have been finished in special IPA casks.
How long is the finish of this whiskey and which flavors dominate it?
The finish of the Jameson Caskmates IPA Edition is rather short but pleasantly warming, featuring notes of ginger, ripe apple, citrus fruits, and a fine oak touch that provides a subtle bitterness.