We have occasion to stop the press for an unscheduled article.

I was lucky enough to receive a secret sample this morning. A 30cl preview measure of Jura’s upcoming release. Many thanks to the Jura boys for sending it – They’re staying extremely tight-lipped regarding any details other than it’s an upcoming release – That’s all we know, not even the percentage. It’s a leap of faith! Spanners is here to share this little dram with me. You’ll get the benefit of both our opinions and we’ll probably both wish we each had a fuller measure!

Only in the leap from the lion head will Freddie and Spanners prove their worth!

Freddie: The nose is a little fiery at first, then I’m getting really rich, freshly made butterscotch, with a tiny bit of sweet red pepper and a little dried seaweed.

Silence descends as it is tasted.

It was an unconventional tasting glass...

Freddie: Ooh!

Spanners: Ooh!

Freddie: Thoughts?

Spanners: It’s like toffee dipped in chocolate – Doesn’t have a particularly strong scent for me, but it tastes rather fabulous.

Freddie: Peppery on the tip of the tongue – There’s a soft, oaky note in there and a subtle hint of tinned peach juice. It reminds me a bit of the 16 year old, but as if it’s been unleashed!

Spanners: Yeah, I can see that.

Freddie: There’s that malty, salty, savoury finish – classic Jura, but not overpowering the flavour. I really agree about the chocolate note. This has a really appealing spiciness, like powdered red chillis dusted over plain chocolate.

Spanners: It’s kinda dry, sort of sucks your cheeks in.

Freddie: [A wolfish grin on his face] I don’t think this is chill-filtered…

You have chosen... Wisely.

Reaction

Freddie: It’s got a nice balance, reminiscent of the coastal Highland whiskies the distillery was built to emulate, but still distinctly a Jura. I really like this one. Hopefully I’ll have another chance to taste it soon!

Spanners: A very good dram with far more character than the rest of the core range, excluding Prophecy. Though they’re certainly pleasant, I don’t have that much more to say about them, but with this one and the Prophecy too, I’m very interested!

Freddie: So for you, another step in the right direction from Jura?

Spanners: Oh, definitely. When can we get some more?

- S.L. & F.R.

About these ads