Last Updated on: 29th April 2024, 05:48 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover everything about the Jameson Black Barrel in this in-depth review that answers all your related questions!
Reviewed by: J Highland
Jameson Black Barrel: A Strong Contender in Irish Whiskey (Great for Bourbon Fans)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Jameson Black Barrel Irish Whiskey offers a compelling alternative to Jameson and stands out in its price range.
Beyond Jameson:
This expression goes beyond simply replacing Jameson. It boasts a delightful flavor profile with depth from charred oak barrels, yet remains smooth for easy sipping.
Rich and Round:
The Black Barrel delivers a more robust and well-rounded taste compared to Jameson. Many find it surpasses the slightly metallic note sometimes associated with standard Jameson.
A Smooth Intro for Bourbon Fans:
For those who enjoy bourbon but are curious about Irish whiskey, Black Barrel offers a smooth and approachable introduction.
Highly Recommended for Value and Taste:
Jameson Black Barrel stands out for its value and taste, making it a highly recommended choice for those seeking a delicious and affordable Irish whiskey experience, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
- Related: Top Picks for Jameson Whiskey
- Learn more: Jameson Black Barrel Website
What’s unique about the Jameson Black Barrel?
- The Black Barrel starts with the classic Jameson Whiskey as its base, then undergoes aging in heavily charred bourbon barrels, imparting a distinct charred oak note to the whiskey.
- The use of these barrels results in a much darker color for the whiskey.
- The blend includes whiskeys aged from 8 to 16 years.
How does Jameson Black Barrel taste?
- Nose: Caramel, oak, smoke
- Palate: Caramel, vanilla, cereal
- Finish: Medium, roasted nuts
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Bushmills Black Bush
At the outset, the nose provides rich sweetness, featuring notes of caramel, charred oak, and a subtle touch of smoke.
On the palate, the Black Barrel initially offers a bit of peppery sensation, though not overpowering.
This peppery character gradually gives way to a rich caramel flavor, accompanied by sweet vanilla, toasted cereal, and a faint hint of smoke.
As for the finish, it maintains a moderate length, leaving a gentle impression of roasted nuts, charred oak, and only a subtle warmth.
When adding water, a touch of caramel is unlocked, though the overall flavor profile remains largely unchanged.
How does the Jameson Black Barrel rank?
These are my rankings:
| Whiskey | Rank |
| Redbreast 12 | 82 |
| Green Spot | 82 |
| Bushmills Peaky Blinders | 72 |
| Bushmills Black Bush | 68 |
| Jameson Black Barrel | 68 |
| Powers | 66 |
| Paddy | 64 |
| Bushmills Red Bush | 64 |
| Jameson | 63 |
| Bushmills Original | 60 |
| Tullamore DEW | 59 |
The Black Barrel not only ranks higher than Jameson and other traditional whiskeys such as the Bushmills Original and the Tullamore DEW but also than others like Powers, Paddy, and the Red Bush.
Where competition gets tough is against the Bushmills Black Bush which is quite solid and enjoyable.
This whiskey is mostly made from malt and aged in sherry and bourbon casks making a great alternative to Scotch Whiskies like Glenlivet or Glenfiddich at a discount.
Frequently Asked Questions
A quick FAQ to address your inquiries:
Is it smoky?
On a scale of 1 to 5 (5 being the highest), the Black Barrel scores a mere one at most, indicating its extremely light presence of smoke.
In fact, the smoke might go unnoticed by those with less developed taste senses.
How to drink it?
- On the rocks: Adding ice did nothing significant for the flavor, but chilling it over ice can make it more enjoyable and lively.
Alternatives
- Bushmills Peaky Blinders: Smooth and flavorful, bottled at a higher proof than average Irish whiskey and affordable.
- The Bushmills Prohibition Recipe: Inspired by the TV series Peaky Blinders, it’s surprisingly good for a celebrity-sponsored whiskey, smooth, and packed with good flavors.
Price
- United States: $30
- Canada: $50
- Britain: £37
- Australia: $84
- Ireland: €50
Alcohol content
- It has an alcohol content of 80 proof (40% ABV), which is the norm among Irish Whiskey.
Age
- It provides No Age Statement (NAS), but the age of the whiskeys in the blend ranges from 8-16 years.
Where is it made?
- It is made at the Jameson Distillery in Old Midleton.
Does it expire?
- No, alcohol doesn’t expire. It will last for years as long as you store it in a cool place away from sunlight.
- However, it’s recommended to drink it once the content is down to 25% as liquors may develop awkward notes beyond this level.
Storage Guidelines
- Store it in a cool place away from sunlight and keep the bottle upright without coming into contact with the stopper.
How did I review Jameson Black Barrel?
I run a pub and a liquor store, granting me extensive access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller.
My evaluations include my insights and feedback from customers and patrons and whiskey expert opinions from Neil Coleman who has been for decades in the liquor business.
I also corroborate my views with online research to ensure accuracy.
Our ratings are determined primarily by four key factors: aroma, taste, finish, and value for money. While we do consider packaging, it is of lesser importance to us, as we prioritize the quality of the liquid inside over the aesthetics of the bottle.
⭐ – Poor, ⭐⭐ – Average, ⭐⭐⭐ – Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Very Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent.
Jameson Black Barrel: Specs
| Type of Whisky | Blend |
| Age statement | No |
| Proof | 80 |
| ABV | 40% |
| Is it good? | Yes |
| Is it top-shelf? | No |
| Does it expire? | No |
| Sweet? | Moderately |
| Warm? | No |
| Peaty? | No |
| Good for beginners? | Not the best |
| Good for cocktails? | Yes |
| Good with Coke? | No |
| Calories per shot | 108 |
| Gluten-free | Yes |
| Keto-friendly | Yes |
| Kosher | No |