In the 1780’s, personal guests of John Jameson received a personal bottle at the end of their visit. This tradition lives on in the Jameson 12yo Distillery Reserve, which you can buy in the online shop, personalized with your own name.
It has been aged in bourbon and sherry casks for a minimum of 12 years and has a high pure Pot Still content. I’m not sure whether it’s different from the regular Jameson 12 Year Old.
Jameson 12 yo ‘Distillery reserve’ (40%, OB)
Nose: rich and fruity (melon, apricot, banana) sprinkled with honey. Almond paste. Vanilla. A subtle layer of wood (cedar?) and soft hints of dried fruits.
Mouth: not a very brave attack, but nice flavours nonetheless. Tropical fruits, tangerine, banana, fruit gums. Nutty flavours from the sherry, as well as light spices, gentle grains and a little oak. Toffee notes and cinnamon.
Finish: medium length, soft with sweet grapefruit and lingering spices.
Fresh, lively, attractive and balanced. Faultless Irish whiskey and better than the 12yo Special Reserve in my opinion, at least the batches I’ve tried. Available at the distillery shop or in the online shop for € 60.
Score: 84/100