Jefferson's Reserve Very Old Bourbon

A simple flavor and a fairly smooth finish. Overall not a bad whiskey to have for everyday sipping.

Given that each production batch is about 8-to-15 barrels, and that the company sources their whiskey, there's bound to be some variance between batches. The batch I tried (#92) was decent, and somewhat unique, but certainly not worth the ($55+ Cdn.) asking price. It's a pretty mild bourbon, so I can see why people like it. Flavours of vanilla, cream soda, grape drink, with a touch of nuttiness. Noticeable oak. Banana, citrus zest. Wood smoke, maple syrup, and sour candies. There's an interesting almost medicinal sourness/smokiness on the taste and an almost black pepper flavour that is quite interesting and unique (though it might very well actually be an off-note). A bit of brown sugar and baking apples. A surprisingly herbal finish. Similarities to Elijah Craig 12 (I wouldn't be surprised if Jefferson's is predominantly sourced from Heaven Hill) without quite as much big, chewy oak.