Jura The Sound

Recently, Jura released a line of expressions aged in Pedro Ximenez sherry casks, a signature style for the Isle of Jura. I've tried all three previous releases (I think they later added a fourth, 'the paps') and enjoyed The Road and The Loch. This one, The Sound, was aged in casks that previously held fine Pedro Ximenez Sherry for at least 15 years, making it the youngest in this series, as the others were aged for 20 and 30 years. Jura's island is said to have a unique 'sound,' and this bottling commemorates that characteristic of the archipelago. Bottled at 42.5% ABV, it has a deep copper color. Nose: Quite pleasant. Upon opening, it offers cinnamon notes. The first aroma detected in the glass is baked apples. Grassy peat / earthy. Maple syrup, aged and viscous. Old, almost rancid orange peel. Subtle citrus notes. A faint cigarette aroma lingers. It's less sweet than the other two Jura expressions mentioned. Thick pineapple marmalade. Blackberry. Old citrus peel. Some aged, syrupy red fruits. Blackberry marmalade after the first sip, very nice. Palate: Good, following the same profile: Tropical fruits like pineapple and peaches. Very gentle. Cinnamon spice. Finish: Delivers a completely different impact that somehow barely fits. There's a pleasant puff of smoke, followed by a subtle pepper note and spiciness that lingers on the tongue, nice but 'ghostly.' Grassy, burnt hay finish. Overall, I consider this my least favorite of the collection; it lacked elements found in the other two expressions. It's not bad at all, just average/nice. Score: 82/100.

An enjoyable and easy-drinking spirit. While not exceptionally complex, it offers pleasant flavors of caramel, nuts, raisins, and a hint of saltiness on the palate. The peat is very subtle. I purchased this in a 375 ml bottle at the Reykjavik airport, which was ideal for my time in Iceland. It's certainly not a must-have for me, but it was enjoyable and a good value. I've also tasted Jura's Seven Wood (excellent), and this whisky has inspired me to explore more of Jura's range.

Jura single malt Scotch whisky, The Sound, a travel edition in a 35 cl size. Very smooth and delightful. Slightly sweet, with caramel undertones.

An average bottling. It's well-balanced, and I'd compare it to a range between Chivas 12 and Monkey Shoulder. It's fine for sipping but not amazing.

Pleasant vanilla, citrus cake with nutty spice lingering. Tastes like acerola, star fruit, and manchego cheese.

Resinous, full-bodied, and smooth! Guaranteed Scottish island quality, I'd drink it again!