Jameson Caskmates Stout Edition Release 2020
In the world of whisky, unconventional paths often lead to the most exciting discoveries. For years, the Jameson distillery maintained a pragmatic relationship with the neighbouring Franciscan Wells brewery: the disused whisky casks found a second life there for stout maturation. But at some point, the question arose in Midleton as to whether this cycle could also work the other way round. What happens when whisky is allowed to mature in casks that were previously filled with dark stout?
Tasting Notes
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.
Palate
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.
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To our bottle sharingsThoughts
Marcel 68/100
A whiskey that promises more than it delivers – the nose raises high expectations, but the taste remains polite and tame. For sociable beginner evenings, the Jameson Caskmates Stout Edition is still a pleasant companion, even if the stout note plays more like a shy little mouse.
Sascha 70/100
The Jameson Caskmates Stout Edition shows a decent balance and a soft texture, yet the intended interplay between stout and whiskey remains surprisingly vague. Despite its approachable nature, it lacks the depth and characterful complexity that the ambitious connoisseur seeks.
Value for Money: Good
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What makes the Jameson Caskmates Stout Edition 2020 release special compared to other Jameson whiskeys?
This release matures in barrels that were previously filled with dark stout beer. As a result, the whiskey acquires subtle coffee notes and a slight bitterness on the finish reminiscent of stout, which is not typical for classic Jameson whiskeys.
How strongly does the stout cask influence the taste of the Jameson Caskmates Stout Edition 2020?
The influence of the stout cask is mainly noticeable on the finish with coffee notes and a light bitterness. On the palate, however, the whiskey remains mild and restrained; the typical stout notes are rather subtle and not dominant.
Is the Jameson Caskmates Stout Edition 2020 suitable for whisky beginners?
Yes, with its soft texture and mild flavor, the whiskey is very accessible for beginners. The restrained roasted and citrus notes make it a pleasant introduction without overwhelming spice or complexity.