Jefferson’s ‘Very Small Batch’ Bourbon, 41.15%, $30
The whiskey’s formula has been improved, now consisting of a higher percentage of older whiskies (into the high teens), compared to the original release (which I rated 81). Nicely balanced, with candied fruit, blackberry jam, soft vanilla, kettle corn, and a kiss of mint. Pleasant, unpretentious, and uncomplicated. — John Hansell
Advanced Malt Advocate magazine rating: 85
and how does one tell if he is buying the older younger product vs. this improved version? I’ll pass and stick with whiskeys that put age statements directly on bottle.
That’s a very good question and I don’t know the answer. Hopefully, the brand owner will chime in here and shed some light.
Older younger version vs. the new one – I think when a drinks company is releasing a new improved version (although new isn’t always improved), there will be a fair amount of forward planning, allowing old stock to run out, so obviously at some point all you get is the new.
I don’t know if this is the same, but I’ve come across whiskies in which the fill has changed without telling anyone (I have a particular whisky in mind) and the producer seemingly hoping that the consumer will like it.
Wade, I agree that knowing what you’re buying is important, but please don’t put all of your faith in an age statement. Old usually equals expensive, does not necessarily equal good.
I’m for full disclosure – I want a bottler to tell me where and when it was distilled. An age statement is part of that. The owner of this brand is not a distiller. Scotch Whiskey independent bottlers give you this information, but for whatever reason here in the US these independent bottlers would rather have you believe they made the product.
I totally disagree about the amount of forward planning to let old stock run out. Old stock, in a none liquor control state, can sit around for years and years. Proof, I recently purchased 2 bottles of Jefferson’s Reserve that is a 15 YO bourbon and listed so on the label. I know they have not made this product in several years.
Sounds like a good improvement AND very reasonably priced! I will have to keep my eye out for the new formula… if I can tell which it is.
I have to wonder if they are starting to blend in some of the S-W/Bernheim barrels (i.e. what goes into the Reserve) that are about to turn 19 yo and which, (to my palate at least), are now showing a lot of wood.
Michael
My local liquor store hosted a whiskey tasting last night that featured this Jeffersons. . .For the money there are half a dozen other whiskey/bourbons.