Jura whiskey: history, features, overview of taste and types
Jura Scotch is produced on the island of the same name, located off the west coast of the country. The local single malt drink, like its distinctive hilly homeland, which inspired George Orwell to write the dystopian novel 1984, has a bright and unforgettable character.
History of the Dzhura brand
The island of Jura is surprisingly beautiful, but not particularly suitable for whiskey production. It is surrounded on all sides by stormy wild waves and treacherous whirlpools that prevent the safe transportation of drinks. This led the creators of the scotch to develop a special branded bottle with rounded edges, resistant to damage. However, whiskey has been produced in these parts for a long time: it is believed that the first distillery was founded here in the XVI century.
The history of local drinks is shrouded in mystery and legends. It is said that the development of the industry was not without the participation of dark forces and witchcraft curses.
Facts say that the plant that distills Isle of Jura was launched in 1810, and it did not last long.
The exact name of the creator is unknown: it is assumed that in the early years the company was owned by farmer William Abercrombie, merchant John Gamp, and the Ferguson family.
By the end of the XIX century, the distillery collapsed and survived all the vicissitudes of the XX century in this form: world wars, the American "dry law" and other difficult times for the alcohol industry.
It was rebuilt by the locals only in 1963. The Scottish architect Delm Evans assisted in the restoration, and a special batch of whiskey was released in his memory. Over time, the company, which is located on the shores of a picturesque lake, has repeatedly changed owners.
Today the company is owned by Whyte & Mackay.
Features of Jura production
Thanks to the crystal clear underground source originating in the Paps of Jura mountains and the special marine microclimate, whiskey acquires its unique "island spirit" and exceptional softness.
Natural drying of malt without the use of peat eliminates the harsh smoky flavor in the brand's drinks. Bright smoked notes can be found only in some of the collection.
The Isle of Jura distillery has the highest distillation stills among the island distilleries, which give a special purity and lightness to the spirits produced. Whiskey is produced by the classic double distillation method.
Long aging in different types of oak barrels, which are brought to the island from all over the world, gives the drinks a rich and rounded taste.
Types of Jura whiskey
The collection of the Dzhura brand includes only single malt. The main line is called "Signature" and includes 5 drinks of different aging degrees with subtle smoky and sherry notes:
Journey
A young drink of 40% strength, matured in American white oak barrels, is ideal for the first acquaintance with the brand.
Color: amber-gold.
Nose: vanilla and citrus, with light smoky hints.
The taste is characterized by tones of cinnamon, pear, nuts and toffee.
10 Year Old
10-year-old malt with a copper-golden hue, aged in different types of barrels, filled with smoothness and sherry sweetness.
The aroma is dominated by notes of fruit, ripe pepper, dark chocolate, in the taste - accents of nectarines, ginger, freshly ground coffee.
Alcohol content: 40%.
12 Year Old
Rich whiskey of a rich golden color, matured in bourbon barrels and polished in sherry casks.
The aroma pleases with an exquisite combination of chocolate, juicy tropical fruits, walnut and citrus tones.
The taste is dominated by hints of honey, salted bananas and brown sugar in a light smoky frame.
Strength: 40%.
Seven Wood
Unique multi-layered scotch, which was cut in 7 different types of casks. Color: mahogany with splashes of gold.
The aroma is complex, with hints of coffee, spicy ginger and milk chocolate.
The taste is rich, multifaceted, with notes of peach, caramel, chewing liquorice, candied orange, subtle sea and smoky tones.
Strength: 42%.
18 Year Old
An unusual drink, matured in American oak barrels, enriched by aging in wine tanks of the Bordeaux region.
Color: gold with a pinkish tint.
Main notes: tropical fruits, toffee, cinnamon, cocoa and coffee.
Alcohol content: 44%.
In addition to the listed varieties of scotch, the company produces special series: "Travel Exclusive", "Rare and Old", "Past expressions".
Aged Isle of Jura drinks are good neat, with ice, cigar or coffee, and younger ones are good in cocktails.
The special character of Seven Wood requires exclusive tasting: the manufacturer recommends combining it with cucumber infusion, agave juice and Chablis wine.
Update: 15.04.2019
Category: Whiskey and Bourbon