Last Updated on: 29th April 2024, 06:59 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 Jameson Whiskey in this in-depth review and discover if it’s a good whiskey!
Reviewed by: J Highland
Jameson Irish Whiskey: Smooth & Mixable (Great Value)
Rating: ⭐⭐
Jameson Irish Whiskey has earned its place as the world’s best-selling Irish whiskey for a reason: affordability and smooth drinkability.
Strengths:
- Smooth & Mixable: Jameson offers a well-rounded flavor profile that works well in various cocktails. A splash of water, ginger ale, or ice can further enhance its smoothness and reduce the mild alcohol burn and peppery notes.
- Affordable Value: Jameson is a budget-friendly option, making it a great choice for everyday enjoyment or mixing.
Weaknesses:
- Metallic Note: Some find Jameson to have a slightly metallic aftertaste. This can be off-putting to some drinkers.
- Lacks Complexity: Jameson prioritizes smoothness over complex flavors. This might be a drawback for those seeking a more nuanced whiskey experience.
Verdict:
Jameson is a solid choice for those who prioritize smoothness and affordability. Its adaptability in cocktails makes it a versatile option for various drinking occasions. However, the presence of a metallic note might be a turn-off for some whiskey enthusiasts seeking pleasant sipper, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
- Related: Jameson Whiskey Alternatives
- Learn more: Jameson Irish Whiskey Website
What’s unique about Jameson?
Jameson is not just the top-selling Irish Whiskey worldwide, but even in Ireland, a country known for its whiskey appreciation and culture.
As per the Irish Times, Jameson’s sales have surpassed an impressive 10 million cases, establishing its unquestionable leadership in the market.
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Floral, marmalade, caramel
- Palate: Ripe fruit, vanilla
- Finish: Medium, caramel, spice
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
- Similar to: Bushmills
The aroma presents a floral bouquet with pleasant hints of orange marmalade and caramel, accompanied by a subtle alcohol presence that doesn’t overpower.
Tasting Jameson, one experiences a well-rounded body with sweetness and fruity flavors, prominently showcasing a rich vanilla note.
However, there is a slight nuisance of metallic undertones that emerges later, adding an unusual touch but not overly unpleasant.
The finish is moderately long, characterized by sweetness with a touch of black pepper on the tail end.
How does Jameson whiskey rank?
These are my 2023 rankings:
| Whiskey | Rank |
| Redbreast 12 | 82 |
| Green Spot | 82 |
| Jameson | 63 |
| Bushmills | 60 |
| Tullamore DEW | 59 |
As evident, there exists a notable disparity between Jameson and premium Irish whiskeys like Redbreast and Green Spot, which represent the gateway to some of the finest offerings in the category.
However, Jameson still outperforms comparable counterparts like Tullamore DEW and Bushmills, which do not align with my personal preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
A quick FAQ to solve doubts:
Is Jameson sipping whiskey?
- Jameson has a smooth and moderately sweet taste, but some find a weird metallic note that makes it less enjoyable as a sipper.
- It serves better as a mixer and is great for making cocktails.
- It blends nicely with various mixers, including unconventional choices like Red Bull.
- Adding ice can improve the sipping experience.
Also read: How to Drink Jameson Whiskey
Alternatives
- Jameson Black Barrel is a recommended alternative, aged in charred oak barrels for a richer taste.
- There are other alternatives to explore for a broader perspective.
Alcohol content
- It is 80 proof (40% ABV), which is the typical strength for most Irish Whiskeys.
Aging
- Jameson is aged for a minimum of 4 years.
Does it expire?
- No, alcohol doesn’t expire. It will last for years if stored properly in a cool place away from sunlight.
How to store it?
- Store it upright in a cool place away from sunlight, avoiding contact with the stopper.
How is it made?
- It is produced from a blend of grain whiskey, malt, and single-pot still whiskey.
- The mash is made using barley, maize, and pure Irish water.
- The whiskey is triple-distilled through three copper-pot stills: a wash still, a feint still, and a spirit still.
- Aged for a minimum of 4 years in a combination of ex-sherry and ex-bourbon casks.
Where is it made?
- Jameson is crafted at its own Old Midleton Distillery in Cork, Ireland.
Who owns it?
- Jameson is owned by Paris-based Pernod Ricard, which also owns other brands like Glenlivet and Chivas Regal.
How did I review Jameson Whiskey?
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 Whiskey: Specs
| Type of Whisky | Blend |
| Age statement | No |
| Proof | 80 |
| ABV | 40% |
| Is it good? | Meh |
| Is it top-shelf? | No |
| Does it expire? | No |
| Sweet? | Moderately |
| Warm? | No |
| Peaty? | No |
| Good for beginners? | Yes |
| Good for cocktails? | Yes |
| Good with Coke? | Yes |
| Calories per shot | 108 |
| Gluten-free | Yes |
| Keto-friendly | Yes |
| Kosher | No |