Jameson Signature Reserve

I obtained a sample of this non-age-statement, travel retail exclusive (I believe) from a relative in Canada. It's important to clarify that this is not the 'Signature Reserve' but simply 'Signature.' The distinction isn't clear, but the labels differ, and this comes in clear glass, unlike the typical green bottle of the standard offering. This blended Irish whiskey is bottled at 40% ABV, is chill-filtered, and has added coloring, giving it a honey-gold appearance. The aroma is delicate, and the familiar Jameson profile is immediately apparent with notes of cereal malt and honey. Shortly after, a few differences emerge with hints of almonds and floral notes. What I can only describe as the scent of fried batter accompanies a lightly coated baked whitefish. There's subtle oak and also cedar wood. It's slightly grassy with a noticeable harshness from the grain alcohol. Very light notes of toffee and vanilla are present. A sort of blended fruitiness, like pears, grapes, and blueberries all mixed together. A very gentle wood smoke and a quick hit of powdered ginger. This has complexity, but it truly requires effort to discern. The palate mirrors the typical Jameson profile. Cereal malt and honey. A hint of saltiness or salted caramel and vanilla. Dry butter cookies made with insufficient butter. Grassy with a light lemon citrus. Some melon and blackberries. A corn/grain alcohol comes through and makes you realize it was present all along. Once noticed, it becomes almost overwhelming. The mouthfeel is light-bodied, thin but slightly oily. It's initially mouthwatering but then becomes dry. A medium-short finish. It's dry and dominated by barley and, more significantly, that grain alcohol. This isn't significantly better than the standard Jameson, but it's not worse either. It's just subtly different. The grain alcohol is more pronounced here than in the standard version, but it also offers a bit more depth, so it balances out. I'm not entirely certain about the price point, but I'm fairly confident it falls within the $30-35 range for a liter. Like the standard version, this would be best enjoyed on the rocks with a touch of water or in a mixed drink. A solid rating. Cheers

What a delightful whiskey! Considering its cost, it's practically a treasure. The name Jameson Signature harkens back to the early days when the distiller would autograph bottles, offering customers a guarantee of authenticity. This is a very direct spirit that performs well. Nose: only banana and caramel. Nothing more is required here. Taste: banana and pepper. Such a pleasing heat! Finish: uncomplicated yet pleasing. Spicy aftertaste. In summary, I rate this pour an 87 out of 100, and given its price, it's highly suggested.

This kicked off our whiskey exploration yesterday evening and I truly enjoyed this pour. Sadly, I cannot recall particular flavor details because many other whiskies followed and the night became unclear:-). I recall being impressed possibly because my hopes were low (considering it was Jameson's) or I was glad it was the conclusion of the work week and my initial spirit. Regardless, it wasn't astounding - I'd rate it 3.5, but given its $60 USD per liter or $40 for a standard bottle, I'll adjust up to a 4 based on its value.

Certainly a minor improvement over the regular Jameson, with less alcoholic bite in both aroma and taste. It has a more pronounced fruity, dried fruit aroma compared to the regular Jameson. Additionally, a distinct dried plum scent emerges from the bottle upon opening! The taste is much smoother and fruitier. Beyond these differences, the familiar aroma and taste of the regular Jameson are still present. Not bad for a Jameson product.

It's an okay whiskey, but the price is only good when it's on sale. Black Barrel is a step up. I do like it, but there are other bargain whiskeys that taste just as good, in my opinion.

I agree with others that it's a nice improvement over regular Jameson, a little smoother and very simple to drink. I rate regular Jameson as a 3, so this gets a 4 because I feel it's definitely better.