Isle of Jura 14 Year Old American Rye Cask Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

"The best Jura I have tasted in years...Can't recommend this bottling enough." - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible

Jura’s more affordable offerings have mostly been NAS bottlings and on the lighter side. They’re rarely considered "must try malts".  By all reports, the 14 year old (launched in 2022) delivers a big step up with American whiskey casks really complementing Jura’s spirit. Matured in ex bourbon and finished in hand selected x-rye barrels for an unspecified period, this little gem promises surprising depth and complexity at an entry-level ABV.

Other reviews... Now that is what I call a nose! There is a most subtle mintiness coming off the rye casks. There is also a fixed, firm honey tone too, of the heather honey variety. All beautifully amalgamated with the tannins... Fascinating, and behaves a lot older than its fourteen years... such an excellent nose, it would be easy for the delivery to be a let down. But it isn't. Instead we have a gentle oiliness softening the deep and powering tannins which offer a lightly overdone toast character to the chocolate lime candy. I did not expect to pick up any rye notes on this... but they are unquestionably there via the rigid sugars... This is complex, big on flavour while offering a subtle complexity as a degree of eucalyptus sneaks in. Most remarkable, the delivery gives the feeling that something a lot older than fourteen years has gone into this. The best Jura I have tasted in years - and in contention for a Whisky Bible Award. Can't recommend this bottling enough. 95.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2024

...Red berry, cherry, and light touches of earthy oak aromas. The palate is light and delicious, with more red berry notes, sweet orange, vanilla, and balanced pepper spice. A long finish brings a rush of strawberry tart, crème brûlée, and confectioners sugar against the heat of pepperoncini. The ABV is as light as can be, yet it delivers on flavor—rich vanilla and sweet berry fruit—with excellent depth and superb balance. 92 points - whiskyadvocate.com

Notes from the producers... Nose: Our classic fresh citrus and vanilla character is balanced with the herbal and floral aromas of the American Rye barrels, delivering aromas of mango, fresh mint and crushed almonds.  Taste: On the palate, you’ll taste toffee apple richness and pecan pie with layers of cinnamon, vibrant vanilla, honey, cacao and hazelnut. Finish: Warm and nutty with notes of toffee, maple syrup, guava and soft wood spices.