Jameson Gold Reserve

Early in my whiskey-drinking days, the standard bottling was my go-to. When I saw the Gold Reserve, I assumed that this would be the pinnacle of all whiskey. Obviously, I had a lot to learn. Still, upon hearing that this had been discontinued, I felt compelled to try this before it was all but gone; if for no other reason, to satisfy the curiosity of my novice-self. So, let's see if this can live up to those lofty expectations. Nose: Quite grainy. Shortbread cookie, vanilla, and apple. Roasted nuts, macadamia, and almond. Sweet and floral. Caramel, toffee, and malt. Not complex or groundbreaking, but pleasant. It's very subdued and even a bit boring at first but manages to brighten up with time in the glass. Didn't care for it at first, but it's grown on me significantly. Palate: Vanilla, honey, toffee, malt, shortbread cookie. Some red apple and golden raisin. None of the grainy metallic notes I often find in Irish. This is obviously well-aged stock. Instead of the metallic notes, it's a grapefruit bitter note. Even some vegetal notes; maybe cucumber (I've only ever gotten grapefruit and cucumber in tequilas, which makes this interesting).The nutty notes from the nose come through again. This is the definition of easy-going. It may not be the most complex, but it is very enjoyable and remarkably easy to put down. Finish: Relatively short but does provide a bit of much-welcomed heat. Cinnamon and black pepper. Clove and nutmeg. Prominent oak. Where to begin with my analysis? I'll say this. It's good. I enjoyed it. $95 good? No. Worthy of the ostentatious title of "Gold Reserve?" Not particularly. Does this aspire to the level of quality that my novice-mind once imposed upon this product? Not only no, but hell no. Perfectly enjoyable background whiskey. That's all. 40% ABV really holds this one back. It's better than the Black Barrel if you don't factor VFM. But if you do, if score the latter an entire half a point higher. And the Cooper's Croze is just outright better. Ultimately, that is the superior option for Jameson NAS releases. So obviously, I won't too disappointed when this has disappeared from the shelves altogether. Jameson is obviously moving in the right direction with their higher-end releases using the Cooper's Croze as a reference point. My expectations had diminished long before I ever purchased a bottle; however, it's good enough where I'm glad I got to try it before it's all but forgotten. Cheers!

Jameson Gold Reserve is a Blended Irish Whiskey from the Midleton Distillery in Cork. The Gold Reserve is made up of three types of pot still whiskeys and one grain whiskey. Of the pot still whiskeys, one is aged in virgin American oak barrels for 8-10 years, another in ex-bourbon for 10-20 years, and a third in ex-sherry for 10-12 years. The grain whiskey component is aged primarily in ex-bourbon with some virgin American oak elements. Nose - Fragrant wood, rich pot still with a hint of sherry sweetness. Taste - The creaminess and honey sweetness combine to deliver a taste experience with a spicy character, offering a smooth and complex whiskey journey. Finish - A very long finish with a pleasantly peppery conclusion. (This review is based on and expands upon published reviews)

Of the few premium bottles I've acquired seeking a smooth sipper, this one is quite nice. I struggle to inhale the aroma deeply as the vapor from any alcohol irritates my sinuses, so I must rely on taste. Being among the less expensive options I've purchased, I truly appreciate its flavor and smooth character. It leaves a pleasant, mild aftertaste that isn't overwhelming. Actually, I prefer this over a bottle I paid more than double for.

Lovely dram. The nose presents creamy vanilla and sherry notes. The palate is hot, not peppery. You can also detect chocolate, some dried fruits, and wood on the palate for a medium finish that is hot. It's a nicely balanced whiskey. Add a drop of water to release most aromas and make the palate more agreeable. My first Irish whiskey, a good experience.

Aroma: notes of toasted black tea, barley, and grains. A slight hint of damp mown grass that's been left out, with a touch of mustiness. Dried longans. Taste: Very subtle vanilla, mild caramel, baked pears drizzled with honey. The texture is a little thin but remarkably smooth and buttery. Finish: A faint touch of oak with a flavor profile reminiscent of fruity tea mixed with toasted or charred melons. Rated 82/100

You might expect this to be an improvement over the Special Reserve and Black Barrel versions, but during a Jameson tasting session, I observed that many people barely touched their glasses. I discovered the reason when we tried ours – it had a flavor like musty footwear and old age, similar to a dusty attic.