Jefferson's Reserve Presidential Select 17yr

[BengalMan]

Word is that this will be bottling in the next 2 weeks or so and will be hitting shelves soon there after. Around 3100 cases, and from what I've been told, under a 1/3 of that will be allocated for the KY market. I believe retail will be ~$85. I for one am looking forward to this release.

[Lost Pollito]

You are not alone. I'm getting pretty giddy waiting for this Presidential reserve, the 4 roses barrel strength, and the btec. I'd like the Hirsch, but my lotto numbers never seem to work. Oh...and 4 months or so till btac. Oh no. I've turned into a total bourbon nerd. Should be a fun few months hunting these down.:cool:

[BengalMan]

I picked up the 2 bottles of the 2009 Four Roses Barrel Strength already along with 2 each of the BTEC. The Presidential is next on my list. Ugh, my wife is gonna off me. I recently went on a Guatemalan Zaya Rum kick hunting and buying every bottle of the Guatemalan bottling in sight, lol. Thank god the BTAC is 4 months away, lol.

[OscarV]

You are not alone. I'm getting pretty giddy waiting for this Presidential reserve, the 4 roses barrel strength, and the btec. I'd like the Hirsch, but my lotto numbers never seem to work. Oh...and 4 months or so till btac. Oh no. I've turned into a total bourbon nerd. Should be a fun few months hunting these down.:cool:

Also there is the 3rd in the Parker's Heritage Collection and the 2nd of 4R's Mariage.
It doesn't seem to end.
Is that a good thing or a bad thing?

[WsmataU]

Jefferson's Reserve is a personal favorite. Thanks for the info, I'll keep my eyes peeled!

[fricky]

When Jefferson's Reserve was 15 yr old, I thought that it was exceptional. When it was changed to "Very Old" (12-17 yrs), it was not quite as good. It will be interesting to see how the new 17 yr compares.

[cas]

When Jefferson's Reserve was 15 yr old, I thought that it was exceptional. When it was changed to "Very Old" (12-17 yrs), it was not quite as good. It will be interesting to see how the new 17 yr compares.

I agree, the original 15 year release was very nice, but the bottle I bought about a year ago wasn't very interesting.

What's the source of the 17 year stock?
Craig

[jburlowski]

Also there is the 3rd in the Parker's Heritage Collection and the 2nd of 4R's Mariage.
It doesn't seem to end.
Is that a good thing or a bad thing?

Stimulus, man, think stimulus.

[Vange]

When is Parkers 3rd edition coming out?

[StraightBoston]

I agree, the original 15 year release was very nice, but the bottle I bought about a year ago wasn't very interesting.

What's the source of the 17 year stock?
Craig

I'm intrigued -- at the Julio's tasting in Massachusetts a couple months ago, Trey Zoeller hinted at S-W as the source! 17 years would put it right at the end of production, no?

[OscarV]

When is Parkers 3rd edition coming out?

The first two were Autumn releases so I'd bet the the 3rd will be to.
Speculation is that it will be a rye.
Those Rittenhouse Ryes, 21yo and 23yo, that HH put out for big bucks didn't sell as well as expected.
So maybe it'll be a rye.
They released two bourbons and have a rye, corn and wheat to go to complete the collection.

[p_elliott]

I'm intrigued -- at the Julio's tasting in Massachusetts a couple months ago, Trey Zoeller hinted at S-W as the source! 17 years would put it right at the end of production, no?

The article in Bourbon Review said it was 400 barrels of SW juice that was discovered I would love to get a bottle of this.

[DeanSheen]

The article in Bourbon Review said it was 400 barrels of SW juice that was discovered I would love to get a bottle of this.

I dont get this. HOw does one just "discover" 400 barrels?

[wadewood]

I dont get this. HOw does one just "discover" 400 barrels?

From my understanding Buffalo Trace had some barrels of SW whiskey that were under contract to Seagrams (? or some other Canadian whiskey mfg). It was used to blend in Canadian whiskey.

I'm guessing that this is where this barrels came from (if it is indeed SW whiskey).

[tommyboy38]

If it was really SW bourbon in those barrels, wouldn't they just come out and say it??

The distillery is long gone. No need to protect the identity of a defunct distillery.

[Vange]

17 year SW sounds yummy, but seriously how they misplace 400 barrels?

[smokinjoe]

From my understanding Buffalo Trace had some barrels of SW whiskey that were under contract to Seagrams (? or some other Canadian whiskey mfg). It was used to blend in Canadian whiskey.

I'm guessing that this is where this barrels came from (if it is indeed SW whiskey).

17 yr. Stitzel-Weller to be blended in Canadian Whiskey...:cry:I can hardly say that, without crying. :cry:
Heck, why not skip the mushrooms, and put White Truffles on your Dominos Pizza? Or, Kobe Beef, in your Hamburger Helper? Horse p#*s in your Red Stag...wait a minute...that may be stooping TOO low. I like horses too much, to sully them so. ;)

[DeanSheen]

Horse p#*s in your Red Stag.

Isnt that whats in there now?

[smokinjoe]

Isnt that whats in there now?

No, it would taste better with horse p#*s, I think.

[tommyboy38]

Is it the horse piss or the cherry infusion that improves it? There's probably not any horse piss in it. That goes into the white label.

[Josh]

Is it the horse piss or the cherry infusion that improves it? There's probably not any horse piss in it. That goes into the white label.

Interesting news, in the latest edition of the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), the entry "thread drift" makes reference to this very thread.

[Virus_Of_Life]

17 yr. Stitzel-Weller to be blended in Canadian Whiskey...:cry:I can hardly say that, without crying. :cry:


Been happening for quite some time now going into Crown Royal, as I believe Diageo had 2000 barrels of it being used for blending.

[tommyboy38]

So Canadian whiskey isn't really Canadian?

[callmeox]

The base whiskey can be made in the US or Canada, but it takes Canadian know-how to ruin it to the point where they can call it Canadian Whiskey. :cool:

[tommyboy38]

I wonder if the Canadians are behind Red Stag?

[p_elliott]

Been happening for quite some time now going into Crown Royal, as I believe Diageo had 2000 barrels of it being used for blending.

Time to invade Canada and rescue what's left of 2000 barrels of prime bourbon. Call out the Kentucky National Guard their states honor is at stake.

[cowdery]

Hansell wrote about the new Jefferson's earlier this week. The post is here (http://blog.maltadvocate.com/2009/07/07/new-jeffersons-presidential-select-17-yo/).

[Vange]

SW juice....nice.

It sounds like this will become part of the regular Jefferson's profile, so I assume eventually it wont be SW. I suppose I should get some on this initial release.

[fricky]

Has anyone spotted the 17 yr Jefferson's Reserve?

[indyrider]

Anyone have a line on this in KY?

[jburlowski]

No sign of it or any ETA at the two locations I checked in Northern KY this weekend.

[OscarV]

I was in KY last week and I checked at several places and the retailers that knew what I was asking for didn't know when it would be in.

[p_elliott]

I'm hoping it will hit the selves just before the KBF so I can pick some up.

[Phischy]

Is this going to hit the west coast?

[CajunKY]

Got a call from my buddy at Liquor Barn in Lexington today and Jefferson Reserve 17yr. is in. Price quoted was $88.49.

-Clay

[ShewDawg]

Nice, looking forward to getting that at the KBF this year. Jefferson's Reserve was probably the first bourbon that I tried purely for the taste, and it was not dissappointing. I have not gotten it since it has gone into the 50s, but still think back fondly of it.

The Presidential Reserve seems a little high, but I won't mind trying it. just won't be in the regular rotation.

[jburlowski]

Also on the shelves in Northern KY.

[tommyboy38]

And available online described as, "Aged in Slitnel - Willer Barrels".

[p_elliott]

And available online described as, "Aged in Slitnel - Willer Barrels".

Tommy

What the heck does that mean? Are they not understanding what SW bourbon is? Which is not slitnel willer!:smiley_acbt:

Paul

[cowdery]

We've got two threads going on this. The other one is here (http://www.straightbourbon.com/forums/showthread.php?t=12746).

It's actually Stitzel-Weller whiskey.

[tommyboy38]

I think it's just someone who was confused but looking to sell a bottle for $50 more than retail.
Speaking of price, I'd rather buy some 20 year old SW for about the same price. Hmmm....I wonder how I can do that?

[CygnusX-1]

Man i hope we get this in VA, even at $90 id pounce on it

[cowdery]

I think it's just someone who was confused but looking to sell a bottle for $50 more than retail.
Speaking of price, I'd rather buy some 20 year old SW for about the same price. Hmmm....I wonder how I can do that?

No, the Jefferson's is actually Stitzel-Weller whiskey. It's 17-year-old Stitzel-Weller whiskey.

[StraightBoston]

I'm waiting for someone to do a side-by-side with Pappy 20 and/or an appropriate-vintage Pappy 15 -- I'm intrigued by Hansell's review (he gave the Jefferson's a 96 vs. Pappy 20's 93 rating!)

[Lost Pollito]

I just tasted this, and described it as pvw 15 with balls. Really nice juice.:cool:
Technical terms I know.

[OscarV]

Is the current Jefferson's Reserve NAS and the now gone 15 yo a wheater or a ryed Bourbon?

[indyrider]

Made a rainy day trip over the border to KY today to get the Jeff Pres Select 17yr....

This juice is so lusciously sweet with heavy vanilla and caramel overtones and a long_smooth_sweet_dry_finish.

I love the heat of the Pappy 15, but to me, the Jeff juice just blows all the other wheaters out of the pond...Cant speak for the Pappy 23 though:skep:

Must be the S-W karma :bigeyes:

I'll be bunkering as long as I can afford to until they're gone.

[Lost Pollito]

This juice is so lusciously sweet with heavy vanilla and caramel overtones and a long_smooth_sweet_dry_finish.

I love the heat of the Pappy 15, but to me, the Jeff juice just blows all the other wheaters out of the pond...
Yep, yep, yep. Pretty nice stuff. I really liked it a ton.

[pepcycle]

Alright, Alright. Stop


The hives were just starting to subside and the twitching was manageable with Xanax.

Propofol has helped quiet the voices at night.

Even so, I thought for just a moement that The Patty might not catch on if I blew by Rockleigh and headed straight to N.KY, getting back at a "resonable hour".

"Mine name is Ed and I have WN"

[cowdery]

We feel your pain, Ed.

We also know the chances of you successfully putting something over on The Patty.

[DowntownD]

anyone have a photo of the bottle?

[IronHead]

http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs152.snc1/5649_1188839848592_1456213597_534775_8130428_n.jpg

[indyrider]

A few more photos....

[smokinjoe]

A few more photos....

Thanks for the pics, fellas.

The wording on the label is oddly put. "Aged in Stitzel-Weller Barrels"

Kinda leaves things up to interpretation, doesn't it?

[spun_cookie]

Thanks for the pics, fellas.

The wording on the label is oddly put. "Aged in Stitzel-Weller Barrels"

Kinda leaves things up to interpretation, doesn't it?

I was thinking the same thing... I would like to get a DSP for distillation... not a DSP of who first owned the barrels....

[cowdery]

I was thinking the same thing... I would like to get a DSP for distillation... not a DSP of who first owned the barrels....

So that's where that came from, the label. Odd. The press release from them is much clearer. According to that, it is SW whiskey.

[spun_cookie]

So that's where that came from, the label. Odd. The press release from them is much clearer. According to that, it is SW whiskey.

I remember reading about it a while back ago and it seemed that it was SW Chuck, but I wonder if it is the SW recipe with SW barrels (which I assume are the thicker oak?) but distilled elsewhere.... ???

Reading the mald advocate blog, he says multiple times it is SW...

http://blog.maltadvocate.com/2009/08/20/review-jeffersons-presidential-select-17-yr-old-bourbon/


I originally reviewed this live online yesterday via Twitter. This is a 1991 vintage, and one of the last years that Stitzel-Weller produced whiskey.
So far this year, this is one of my top two new bourbons (the other being the new Parker’s Heritage Collection Golden Anniversary). Although, I think that the soon to be released William Larue Weller and George T. Stagg from Buffalo Trace might challenge this whiskey, based on the samples I tasted in the Buffalo Trace lab last week.
This whiskey is getting into circulation right now, so go out and get a bottle (and a piece of history). To me, Stitzel-Weller and Michter’s are like Brora and Port Ellen in the Scotch whisky world–silent distilleries that once produced some great whiskeys.
Jefferson’s Presidential Select (Batch #1), 1991 Vintage, 17 year old, 47%, $90
A wheated bourbon from the old Stitzel-Weller distillery. A gentle, richly-textured whisky, loaded with fruit and spice. Black raspberry jam, caramel apple and papaya, along with warming cinnamon and subtle teaberry, on nutty toffee, nougat and creamy vanilla. Spicy, polished oak finish. Superbly balanced, sophisticated and very drinkable. An outstanding whiskey!
Advanced Malt Advocate magazine rating: 96


I would think if it was SW juice, they would clearly put that info on the bottle... but who knows... maybe it is a blend of a little non SW as well to stretch it out?

[Rughi]

I would think if it was SW juice, they would clearly put that info on the bottle... but who knows... maybe it is a blend of a little non SW as well to stretch it out?

It could very well be, and would explain the cat and mouse on the label.
Ancient Age was distilling wheat bourbon (http://www.straightbourbon.com/forums/showpost.php?p=38382&postcount=96) to supplement SW at that time.

Of interest to me would be if that juice was barreled at AA in AA barrels, or trucked over to SW and put into SW barrels such as the ones under discussion now.

Roger

[IronHead]

Is it possible that that McLain and Kyne just didn't want to come right out and admit to the fact that they didn't actually distill this whiskey? I am sure that everyone who reads this board regularly knows that not all bourbon bottlers are distillers. But if you consider the casual boubon drinker, is he or she really concerned with the fact that these barrels came from Stitzel-Weller? I look at the fact that they mentioned it on the label as a way of telling us (the obsessed) that, "hey, this is SW whiskey but since that really won't mean anything to the vast majority of the bourbon buying public we put it on there to let you guys know".

I could be totally off base here, but I am trying to remain positive about this bottling. I know I don't post much but I read this board a lot. I am always a tad jealous when I read a thread with a bunch of regulars going on about this or that "significant bottling." Well, I believe that I finally got in on something significant with JRPS so I am trying not to look a gift horse in the mouth.

Regardless of whose juice was aged in these Stitzel Weller barrels it is delicious. :)

[spun_cookie]

I could be totally off base here, but I am trying to remain positive about this bottling. I know I don't post much but I read this board a lot. I am always a tad jealous when I read a thread with a bunch of regulars going on about this or that "significant bottling." Well, I believe that I finally got in on something significant with JRPS so I am trying not to look a gift horse in the mouth.

Regardless of whose juice was aged in these Stitzel Weller barrels it is delicious.

You are definitely not off base. Ultimately what is important is that it is good juice. Not really worried about who makes it, just odd the way they described it.

And your are again right, for the casual drinker, the SW info means nothing.... its really only us that drive the "who made, who bottled" discussions.

You do have a special bottle... enjoy it and drink well....

... just as a side note, although I love a good SW pour, my top is a WT pour in the 8 yr range. Right now that pour is the dark smooth top WTKSs that are dark juice. The 2003s I am drinking right now are as good if not better than the Pewter tops I have had... so “special” is in pallet of the beholder.

[IronHead]

... just as a side note, although I love a good SW pour, my top is a WT pour in the 8 yr range. Right now that pour is the dark smooth top WTKSs that are dark juice. The 2003s I am drinking right now are as good if not better than the Pewter tops I have had... so “special” is in pallet of the beholder.


I have absolutely nothing against rye, but I do tend to gravitate toward wheaters. So that makes JRPS even more significant for me.

I have never tried WTKS, but I do like the Rare Breed releases I have tasted.

[p_elliott]

From what I've read they "found" these 400 barrels I would guess in a warehouse or rickhouse somewhere that they owned. They probably can't prove it's SW juice so they can only go by what it says on the barrel. Thus the odd wording.

[IronHead]

I posted this in the other JRPS thread, but I went to a tasting where Chet Zoeller was pouring the Jefferson's line and Sam Houston. Unless I misunderstood him he said that the barrels were found in the old Stitzel Weller warehouses. I wish I'd thought to ask him about the 'aged in Stitzel Weller barrels' statement on the label.

[cowdery]

I think you're all reading too much into it. Probably just someone was sloppy with either writing the label copy or with proofreading it. I'm quite confident that it's SW whiskey and there's nothing hinky going on.

[DowntownD]

Damn it, that sucks (the uncertainty).

I'm not buying any of it until the labeling is cleared up...

I really do hope it's a typo or something, but unless it's clarified by someone official then I'm not spending the $ when I can definitely get old SW Bourbon via Pappy 20.

Maybe it's a typo, maybe more clever bullshit; wouldn't be the first time some fucker in the marketing department decided to cloud things to make a buck or three.

Grrrrr.

And I was all excited about this...

[barturtle]

Anyone every thought that, maybe that can't call it Stitzel Weller?

They can't say it was produced at S-W because they don't own the dba to that. They can't say it's S-W Bourbon, because it's quite obviously being sold as Jefferson Reserve (and they don't own the rights to the name "Stitzel Weller").

This is probably the best they could legally do to let you know the source of the whiskey. Get over it.

[Josh]

Damn it, that sucks (the uncertainty).

I'm not buying any of it until the labeling is cleared up...

I really do hope it's a typo or something, but unless it's clarified by someone official then I'm not spending the $ when I can definitely get old SW Bourbon via Pappy 20.

Maybe it's a typo, maybe more clever bullshit; wouldn't be the first time some fucker in the marketing department decided to cloud things to make a buck or three.

Grrrrr.

And I was all excited about this...

If it's a bourbon then it has to be aged in new barrels by law. This whiskey is 17 y/o. How many distilleries were making wheaters in 1992? 2, I believe. So unless somebody put MM into S-W barrels, this HAS to be S-W juice.

[DowntownD]

I don't so much care about the specific wording, nor why it has to be this way or that, as long as there's zero ambiguity as to the source.

Right now, it seems, ambiguity remains (for whatever reason, however valid), and that pegs my bullshit meter with no apology offered...

[IronHead]

Well then your bullshit meter is going to cause you to miss out on some fantastic bourbon regardless of who produced it.

Like I said, according to Chet Zoeller of McLain & Kyne the barrels were found in warehouses on the old Stizel Weller grounds. This came straight from his mouth, not a publicist or a marketing manager. After SW was shut down no more Stitzel Weller whiskey went into those rickhouses, but others did and still do. So considering that it also says "Kentucky Straight Bourbon" on the label if it was "Aged in Stitzel Weller Barrels" I like my odds that Stitzel Weller put it in those barrels back in 1991.

[smokinjoe]

I posted this in the other JRPS thread, but I went to a tasting where Chet Zoeller was pouring the Jefferson's line and Sam Houston. Unless I misunderstood him he said that the barrels were found in the old Stitzel Weller warehouses. I wish I'd thought to ask him about the 'aged in Stitzel Weller barrels' statement on the label.

When he said the barrels were found in the old Stitzel Weller warehouses, did he say they were full? ;)

I don't know, and really, I don't care. If it's good bourbon, I don't care if them little artesians made it. But, this is a site for people passionate about their bourbon, and we loves us a good mystery. :)

The label wording just seems...odd. It could be a typo, or a legality thing, or any number of things. But, it doesn't say what the proprietor has been telling everyone else. And, we as enthusiasts know why saying it's S-W whiskey is so important...Because, if it is, it would indeed be a significant bottling. Again, I just think it's oddly put. And, for the most important factor on this bottling to be questionably described on the front label, just seems a little...odd.

It's probably nothing to fret over. But, the yenta in me is intrigued. :D

[Rughi]

How many distilleries were making wheaters in 1992? 2, I believe. So unless somebody put MM into S-W barrels, this HAS to be S-W juice.

At least 3, including MM, SW and AA.
Follow the link in post 58 of this thread.

And I'm with Smokinjoe, the whiskey is what the whiskey is, but I do love me a mystery.

Roger

[p_elliott]

I think it's SW Juice I think it's just some legal mumbo jumbo BS and the people who have had it have said it's darn good bourbon. I'm getting a bottle if I can find one at the the KBF.

[Josh]

At least 3, including MM, SW and AA.
Follow the link in post 58 of this thread.

And I'm with Smokinjoe, the whiskey is what the whiskey is, but I do love me a mystery.

Roger

Mysteries are fine, but there's no use in making one up when a simple explanation seems more likely.

I had forgotten about that link in post 58. It's hard to follow a discussion in two seperate threads, in black type too. But it amounts to is a report of what Weber said that Gayhart said that he saw. That's a lot of hearsay.

What do the tastebuds say? Any S-W lovers think it tastes different than other S-W whiskey of the same age?

[Vange]

400 barrels!? How many bottles of this exist? I guess it will be plentiful for awhile?

[CygnusX-1]

400 barrels!? How many bottles of this exist? I guess it will be plentiful for awhile?

400 sounds like alot but dont forget about angles share, theres prolly alot of evaporation after 17 years

[StraightBoston]

The other thread on this whiskey says 3100 cases produced, of which about 1/3 are going to the Kentucky market.

Haven't found it in New England yet...

[jburlowski]

400 barrels!? How many bottles of this exist? I guess it will be plentiful for awhile?

Per John Hansell's blog, "Approximately 2100 cases (six bottles per case)..."

[Merlin_AZ]

I also learned that they're keeping a bunch of it and releasing an 18 year-old next year.
I guess we'll see.
Still trying to find some...

[IronHead]

400 barrels!? How many bottles of this exist? I guess it will be plentiful for awhile?

After 17 years I bet you'd be looking at about a quarter of the original volume. Plus at the tasting last week Mr. Zoeller said that some of the barrels they cracked were dry. This stuff is plentiful around Louisville right now. I hit 5 stores today and every one of them had a decent supply. But I hear tell of a newspaper article about it due out which always makes things like this scarce around here.

I would love to know what the barrel proof of this juice was.

I also learned that they're keeping a bunch of it and releasing an 18 year-old next year.

Merlin, did you read this somewhere? If so, care to divulge your source? I would like to check that out.

[doubleblank]

Several years ago a BT employee who should know said there were over 2,000 barrels of SW in BT's rickhouses......whiskey owned by Diageo. Diageo was putting it into Crown Royal. My guess is that Diageo sold some of this SW at its advanced age and made a nice profit. I actually got to taste some of it in BT's lab a few years ago. I tried to get Diageo to release a little of it as a single barrel product to be bottled by a third party back then. Diageo was somewhat receptive to the idea.....someone finally got them to do so......my guess anyway.

Randy

[birdman1099]

FWIW... I just completed a SW showdown.

I compared the Jeffersons Prez select to...

Old Fitz BIB bottled 1985
VVOF 12 yr from 1961
ORVW 15 / 107

I can tell you, I fully believe the JPS is SW whiskey. There are similar characteristics in all of them.

I thought the nose was most similar to the 15 yr. But the taste was not very close.

I thought it tasted most like the Old Fitz BIB, but the JPS had a bit of a longer, woodier finish.

I did not find a lot of close similarities to the VVOF.


Just one mans observation.....:grin:

[Lost Pollito]

Nice showdown Bird. I'm jealous. I'd agree that the jps tasted like sw. What stuck out for me was the sweetness, and thick sw style. Just lovely juice.

[smokinjoe]

Mysteries are fine, but there's no use in making one up when a simple explanation seems more likely.

I had forgotten about that link in post 58. It's hard to follow a discussion in two seperate threads, in black type too. But it amounts to is a report of what Weber said that Gayhart said that he saw. That's a lot of hearsay.

What do the tastebuds say? Any S-W lovers think it tastes different than other S-W whiskey of the same age?

Josh, no one is making anything up. There are just people who are quizzical of the wording on the label. Simply conjecturing on why it may be. But again, no one is fabricating anything.

BTW, does any one know where the bottling was done?

[dgonano]

Just a comment......when AA made wheated whiskey for United, the barrels most likely would have been stencilled as "United Distillers". The Stitzel-Weller bourbon barrels were stencilled as "Old Fitzgerald".

As for the bottler of Jefferson's Presidential.....does the label say Bardstown? If not it probably should.

[Merlin_AZ]

Merlin, did you read this somewhere? If so, care to divulge your source? I would like to check that out.
I think I heard it in the last podcast from http://www.whiskycast.com/.

A question to those who have tried it.
Has the 17 years in the barrel made it too woody, or it still very balanced?

[OscarV]

I think I heard it in the last podcast from http://www.whiskycast.com/.




I just listened to it, yep they are saving some for next year as an 18yo.
The info starts at 8:26 into the podcast.

[jburlowski]

I think I heard it in the last podcast from http://www.whiskycast.com/.

A question to those who have tried it.
Has the 17 years in the barrel made it too woody, or it still very balanced?

IMO, much woody. Another year would likely make it worse.

[IronHead]

I think I heard it in the last podcast from http://www.whiskycast.com/.

A question to those who have tried it.
Has the 17 years in the barrel made it too woody, or it still very balanced?

Thanks for the link.

IMO the wood character is definitely there. But, for me at least, it's not a deal breaker. I need to do a side by side, but I may like it better than PVW 20.

[Lost Pollito]

I think I heard it in the last podcast from http://www.whiskycast.com/.

A question to those who have tried it.
Has the 17 years in the barrel made it too woody, or it still very balanced?
I did not find it to be to woody. I found it to sweet and balanced for the age.

[onmytrack]

Has this reached the West Coast yet? Does anyone know where can I find this in So. Cal?

Jim

[sku]

Has this reached the West Coast yet? Does anyone know where can I find this in So. Cal?

Jim

I haven't seen it anywhere yet.

[whskylvr]

This is not available at the California distributor yet. I will post as soon as it becomes available.

[onmytrack]

Sku & whskylvr - Thanks for the quick reply. Tough to wait while others are throwing it back. I'll keep pace with some '08 GTS.

Jim

[Lost Pollito]

Don't worry Jim. It will be around very soon.:cool: Enjoy that GTS in the interim.

[Merlin_AZ]

I emailed my local shop to find out when they are getting some.
The response proved they have no idea what they're talking about.
Sad, really.
Also, it's been a week since I called them.
I guess they are still waiting to hear back from the distributor.

[indyrider]

Love this juice....Its all over the NKY area so if it gets to the point where you need to have it shipped, I'll give you contact #'s to a couple of shops that might ship to you :grin:

[hectic1]

Anyone know if this has hit the Chicago market yet? :)

[Lost Pollito]

Anyone know if this has hit the Chicago market yet? :)
Should be here very soon. Perhaps next week.:cool:

[cowdery]

Ad from the most recent Malt Advocate. Although the wording here is a little awkward too (what can I say, they have a bad copywriter), it's unambiguous.

[spun_cookie]

Ad from the most recent Malt Advocate. Although the wording here is a little awkward too (what can I say, they have a bad copywriter), it's unambiguous.

Are you sure Chuck? Botteled from the last yaer of the SW distillery does not mean it was bottled WITH SW juice. Just means it is all 17yr juice.

Again, if the juice is good, who cares, but if it was 100% SW juice you would have thouht these guys would have found a way to say that without interpretation ... like:

"Jefferson Reserve Presidential Select 17 yr. Distilled and barreled by SW during their last year of production - DSP 16"

[NeoTexan]

We went to Kahn's in Indy this morning to pick up boxes for the move.

Guy behind the tasting station pulls out a bottle and says, "Have you seen this yet?". Of course I had "seen it" here.:grin: I then was presented with a sample to try. I must say...that's some tasty stuff!

[Virus_Of_Life]

Got a call from my buddy at Liquor Barn in Lexington today and Jefferson Reserve 17yr. is in. Price quoted was $88.49.

-Clay

I was just getting interested until I saw that price. I guess it's wearing off, but for me to pay that I'd have to know it was better than Pappy20 and something tells me whoever doesn't outdo Julian on selection yet.

[NeoTexan]

I was just getting interested until I saw that price. I guess it's wearing off, but for me to pay that I'd have to know it was better than Pappy20 and something tells me whoever doesn't outdo Julian on selection yet.

Although I did not actually see the price tag ... the store I was in said he had it for about $50. Still not a budget bourbon but better than $90

[Virus_Of_Life]

Although I did not actually see the price tag ... the store I was in said he had it for about $50. Still not a budget bourbon but better than $90

Yes Dale, $50 is much more reasonable and if it really is good stuff then I'd pay it for 17yo SW whiskey.

[IronHead]

Although I did not actually see the price tag ... the store I was in said he had it for about $50. Still not a budget bourbon but better than $90


Your retailer may have his price points mixed up. I think the regular Jefferson's Reserve goes for about 50 bucks. After tasting the Presidential Select the 88 dollar price tag really doesn't bother me. If you can get the JPS for 50 don't hesitate.

[WsmataU]

Your retailer may have his price points mixed up. I think the regular Jefferson's Reserve goes for about 50 bucks. After tasting the Presidential Select the 88 dollar price tag really doesn't bother me. If you can get the JPS for 50 don't hesitate.

And I'll take a case at $50!

[IronHead]

I just popped a bottle of PVW 20 to compare to the JPS. I am by no means an expert, but here is what I think:

Appearance: Very similar almost identical. Brownish amber, more yellow than orange. The JPS was just a touch darker than the PVW which surprised me. But then I remembered that the PVW is a lower proof than the JPS

Nose: PVW: Oak, alcohol, orange with a touch of maple
JPS: Vanilla, oak, buttered toffee, maple, caramel

JPS wins.

Taste: PVW: Sweet green apple, pecans, vanilla, wood
JPS: Caramel apple, cinnamon, vanilla. Not quite as sweet as PVW

PVW wins, but not by much.

Finish: PVW: Long, balanced, sweet, woody
JPS: Long, woody, slightly tannic over sweetness but not overpowering.

Tie.

IMO the JPS is at least AS good as PVW 20. The prices are similar around here so I am still not deterred. If you'd pay 90 bucks for PVW 20 then give the JPS a try.


I tasted them both neat in Riedel bourbon glasses. After the comparison I poured what was left of each sample into a rocks glass, added a couple ice cubes and it may be the best thing I've tasted in a long, long time.

Your mileage may vary.

[NeoTexan]

Your retailer may have his price points mixed up. I think the regular Jefferson's Reserve goes for about 50 bucks. After tasting the Presidential Select the 88 dollar price tag really doesn't bother me. If you can get the JPS for 50 don't hesitate.

He may have ..... I'm going back Tuesday to pick up more boxes ( I still have 70 bottles that need to be packed for the move). I will check then and report.

[smokinjoe]

Are you sure Chuck? Botteled from the last yaer of the SW distillery does not mean it was bottled WITH SW juice. Just means it is all 17yr juice.

Again, if the juice is good, who cares, but if it was 100% SW juice you would have thouht these guys would have found a way to say that without interpretation ... like:

"Jefferson Reserve Presidential Select 17 yr. Distilled and barreled by SW during their last year of production - DSP 16"

For some reason, this bugs me too, Emerald. Like you say, if the bourbon is good, who cares. I agree. But, it just seems odd that a definitive statement is not being made on the provenance. At least, a definitive statement, when it counts.

[cowdery]

For some reason, this bugs me too, Emerald. Like you say, if the bourbon is good, who cares. I agree. But, it just seems odd that a definitive statement is not being made on the provenance. At least, a definitive statement, when it counts.

For what it's worth, I think they have been definitive about the provenance, they've just made a few unfortunate word choices in the process. There's no game afoot here. It's wheated bourbon distilled at Stitzel-Weller in 1991 and aged there for 17 years.

[redz28]

Although I did not actually see the price tag ... the store I was in said he had it for about $50. Still not a budget bourbon but better than $90

What's the name of this store? I may have to go to Indy. I got a bottle for $90 in Lex over the weekend and my wife actually thought we should buy more!

[NeoTexan]

What's the name of this store? I may have to go to Indy. I got a bottle for $90 in Lex over the weekend and my wife actually thought we should buy more!

As has been noted, perhaps I was misquoted. We will see tomorrow, but it looks from statements forn others, it may only wishful thinking.

[ErichPryde]

What's the name of this store? I may have to go to Indy. I got a bottle for $90 in Lex over the weekend and my wife actually thought we should buy more!

none is available here in Wichita yet, but I'm going to try to track down several bottles. somehow, my wife took no convincing... which was a little bit surprising. She likes bourbon, but pales at spending more than 30 on a bottle.

and in all honesty, so do I a good majority of the time. 90-100 bucks is a lot of money, really.

[smokinjoe]

I sent an email to Castle Brands, asking them if ALL of the bourbon in the Jefferson PS was distilled at Stitzel-Weller. Trey Zoeller quickly wrote me back with this:

"That is correct, the bourbon was distilled in November and December of 1991 at Stitzel-Weller. I hope you get a chance to enjoy a bottle."

Well, that's good enough for me. It's still an odd choice of words on the label IMO, but I see no reason to now doubt what is in the bottles. Stitzel-Weller bourbon.

[indyrider]

I sent an email to Castle Brands, asking them if ALL of the bourbon in the Jefferson PS was distilled at Stitzel-Weller. Trey Zoeller quickly wrote me back with this:

"That is correct, the bourbon was distilled in November and December of 1991 at Stitzel-Weller. I hope you get a chance to enjoy a bottle."

Well, that's good enough for me. It's still an odd choice of words on the label IMO, but I see no reason to now doubt what is in the bottles. Stitzel-Weller bourbon.

Joe,

Thanks for the forward thinking on this subject. Now, lets drink!

Indy

[Lost Pollito]

Anyone know if this has hit the Chicago market yet? :)

It's in the city. :cool:

[birdman1099]

It's in the city. :cool:


And by "city" you mean "your glass" .....:grin:

[Lost Pollito]

And by "city" you mean "your glass" .....:grin:
indeed.:drinking:

[tommyboy38]

And by "indeed" you mean you have a glass of it for me as well?

[Lost Pollito]

And by "indeed" you mean you have a glass of it for me as well?
You've earned it with that bottle of sw old fitz. :cool:

[NeoTexan]

As has been noted, perhaps I was misquoted. We will see tomorrow, but it looks from statements forn others, it may only wishful thinking.

Well, it was too good to be true. He was quoting the regular juice. They only had a sample bottle and do not have it in yet and do not know the price point yet.

[hectic1]

It's in the city. :cool:
Is it at Binny's?

[Lost Pollito]

Is it at Binny's?
On the shelves at South Loop. The other stores should have it as well. Call ahead to make sure your store got some. I love this time of year...new releases!!! :cool:

[Lost Pollito]

Well, it was too good to be true. He was quoting the regular juice. They only had a sample bottle and do not have it in yet and do not know the price point yet.

The price should be around $90. Aren't you glad you drink bourbon. New Scotch releases seem to just grow in price with each passing second. $90 for some sw juice seems like a bargain for me , as I can't seem to find dusty's with any sw juice in the city.

[docbible]

JRPS 17 just arrived in Knoxville, TN around $ 89 per bottle. tim

[OscarV]

JRPS 17 just arrived in Knoxville, TN around $ 89 per bottle. tim

You just said 3 of my favorite things,

1. JRPS 17
2. Knoxville,TN
3. (only) $89.00

[tommyboy38]

IIRC, there will be an 18 yr old released next year.

I was thinking they should call it "Barely Legal KSBW"

[Josh]

IIRC, there will be an 18 yr old released next year.

I was thinking they should call it "Barely Legal KSBW"

HA! You spend too much time on the internet, my friend.:lol:

[tommyboy38]

That may be true but I don't think that's what influenced my comment.
For some reason the idea of an 18 year old whiskey popped into my head the other day along withe the legality thing and then I remembered a mention of their 18 year they'll release next year.

Whatevr the case, I look forward to trying some of the JRPS SW 17.

[hectic1]

That may be true but I don't think that's what influenced my comment.
For some reason the idea of an 18 year old whiskey popped into my head the other day along withe the legality thing and then I remembered a mention of their 18 year they'll release next year.

Whatevr the case, I look forward to trying some of the JRPS SW 17.
I picked up a bottle of it...I'm going to pick another up here in the next week...my guy at my local store was cool enough to hook me up with his employee discount so I was able to score them for $79.99 each. If you want me to pick you up one let me know. We can trade JRPS SW 17 for ER 10/90...somehow that doesn't seem like a fair trade! :eek:

[hectic1]

I was thinking since there are two different batches has anyone tried both...my bottle is from batch 1 and looking at some pics I see that other members bottles are from batch 2?

[OscarV]

Looks like some postal mini bottle swapping is in order.
I have some JRPS17yo coming later this month I'll check to see which batch it is.

[IronHead]

There are more than two batches. I have bottles from batches 1, 2 and 6.

[birdman1099]

i have a 1 and 6 as well....

[VERITAS]

Any sightings of this in California yet? I've been looking everywhere but haven't found it...

[whskylvr]

Veritas

It has hit the distributor inactive file, but not in the active system yet. I expect it to be available in the next week.

[Merlin_AZ]

Anyone in AZ find any yet?
I've called multiple shops and get the same reply.
"I'll check with my distributor and get right back to you."
They never call back.
Give me a break!
A lot of us are getting tired of the distributors being in the pockets of the politicians.

[spun_cookie]

Nope... nothing in AZ South.... Not sure if we will get any. There is some 08 Weller sitting around if you are looking for it...

[IronHead]

Nope... nothing in AZ South.... Not sure if we will get any. There is some 08 Weller sitting around if you are looking for it...

I'm looking for it. Apparently in the wrong state :)

[B3Nut]

I just stumbled across this thread...oh my. Going to have to siphon off a smidge of the next few gigs...most of that's going to the general fund since we had to get my wife a new car...but I gotta get a bottle of this. This juice sounds soooo tempting...

[DowntownD]

I sent an email to Castle Brands, asking them if ALL of the bourbon in the Jefferson PS was distilled at Stitzel-Weller. Trey Zoeller quickly wrote me back with this:

"That is correct, the bourbon was distilled in November and December of 1991 at Stitzel-Weller. I hope you get a chance to enjoy a bottle."

Well, that's good enough for me. It's still an odd choice of words on the label IMO, but I see no reason to now doubt what is in the bottles. Stitzel-Weller bourbon.

That's the sort of confirmation I was looking for, thanks for sharing.

[spun_cookie]

I used a separate method, but got confirmation as well.

I believe the wording is for future use. These current bottles are 100% SW, but that does not mean the next rounds (if they make any) have to be.

Drink up fellas, and ladies, your drinking history.

[cas]

Any sitings in MI yet?
Craig

[Merlin_AZ]

Just found out that Southern Distributors here in AZ has none, so any retail outlet that is supplied by them doesn't have any, and who knows when.
Wonderful.
Means I might have to get some using "alternative methods."

[George]

If anyone has any sightings in CT, please post details.

[whskylvr]

West coast distributors do not have it in stock yet it is on the way. When it is in the inactive file that means it is on its way and waiting for a product number and price. I will post as soon as it hits the active file.

[bigtoys]

figured it'd be here soon. stopped in Binny's Highland Park this evening for Octoberfest beer and checked the bourbon aisle.....there it was..I grabbed the first bottle, but my wife pointed out I should check the numbers (she knows me well) and there was 2112. Grabbed 2122 for a friend (batch 1)

can't wait to taste it. I'm on call, so it probably won't be until next week.

http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/bigtoys335/JRPres2112a.jpg

[Merlin_AZ]

bigtoys, nice choice in music.
Saw them live in the early '80's in college--unbelievable show.
Still waiting to hear from the local retailers on availability ETA.

[CygnusX-1]

That sure is beautiful picture Bigtoys, good bourbon and Rush, what else do you need?

[sailor22]

So it looks good and the story behind it is great -- what does it taste like?

[whskylvr]

JRPS is due in to the distributor in California on Sept 26.
Hope this helps.

[smokinjoe]

During our discussions of the 17yr JRPS, I thought I remembered some reference to a 17yr JR from some posts, some time back. I searched around, and found what I was looking for. This thread started by Doug (Fricky) in May 2005. http://www.straightbourbon.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3883 In the thread, Omar (Bourbonmed) makes mention of a rumored 17 yr old expression of Jefferson's Reserve in the works. Does anyone know if this is just a coincidence and they were talking about something entirely different? Or does this new release have it's genesis 4-1/2 years ago?

[onmytrack]

whskylvr - Thanks for the update. I lost patience and ordered some from Gordon's on-line. Fedex is scheduled to deliver on 9/15. Shipping was about what sales tax would have been in CA. I can always add more to the bunker when it starts being sold in my area.

Jim

[Merlin_AZ]

onmytrack,
Do you have a link to Gordon's?

[onmytrack]

Merlin - I sent you the link via PM.

Jim

[whskylvr]

onmytrack,

Does Gordon's have a good selection of whiskey? I am always looking for another source.

[onmytrack]

onmytrack,

Does Gordon's have a good selection of whiskey? I am always looking for another source.

They were the first I was able to find that was offering JRPS. It is far from CA so shipping is a little high. They are more a wine store, and other on-line stores have a larger bourbon selection, but I'll keep them on my search list.

Jim

[silverfish]

If your state appears on Gordon's "no ship to" list,
Sams Wine has the JR 17 yr but be sure to check
their "no ship to" list.

[onmytrack]

silverfish brings up a good point about not being allowed to ship to certain states.

Merlin - you're set. Both Gordon's Wine and Sam's Wine ship to AZ as I'm sure most other on-line stores will as well.

Only 2 more days until my JRPS arrives.

Jim

[spun_cookie]

errr..... not quite... no store can ship to AZ. Wine, booze, beer... real pain

[ErichPryde]

errr..... not quite... no store can ship to AZ. Wine, booze, beer... real pain



Hmm. Sam's wine still has Arizona listed as a "ship to" state, but they haven't updated the page since january. Kansas is, of course, not listed.

[Merlin_AZ]

I don't think they're supposed to.
Some leave it up to us to know "our local laws."
Yea right.
I'm supposed to get a price from Total Wines tomorrow, even though they have no idea when it's getting here.
If they don't call, maybe I'll try some of the usual sites and see if they'll ship.
I'll check with Sam's, Binny's, Gordon's (thanks Jim), we'll see.

[Lost Pollito]

AZ is a no ship state. Lame from both ends. :rolleyes:

[spun_cookie]

i know it better than most.... and do you have my dryfly yet? I need to send the birdman up for those 6

[Lost Pollito]

Still waitin' on it.

[onmytrack]

Sorry about the bad news on AZ being a "no ship" state. I was just going off the information on the stores' websites. One states they ship to AZ the other doesn't list it on their "no ship" list.

Jim

[hectic1]

Gordon's is advertising that they have Jefferson "Bourbon Jefferson's Reserve 15 Years Old 750ml" has anyone ordered this...I know that they made a 15 year a couple years ago before the standard "reserve" was released...I want to order some but I want to make sure that it's actually the 15 year.

[sku]

Both Binny's and Gordon's appear to have the Presidential Reserve for $89.99.

[hectic1]

Both Binny's and Gordon's appear to have the Presidential Reserve for $89.99.
Binny's has it in stock...I've seen it at 3 locations.

[onmytrack]

Gordon's is advertising that they have Jefferson "Bourbon Jefferson's Reserve 15 Years Old 750ml" has anyone ordered this...I know that they made a 15 year a couple years ago before the standard "reserve" was released...I want to order some but I want to make sure that it's actually the 15 year.

Gordon's photo is very small, but it is not a photo of the JR 15 year bottle, it is a photo of the "Very Old" bottle. I'd say it is unlikely it is the 15 year old, but you could simply call them and ask. Mission Wine & Spirits at least shows a picture of the 15 year bottle. I'd still call before buying.

Jim

[bigtoys]

Binny's computer says they're out, but at least one store has some. I went back to get what I thought were the last 2 bottles and they had put out another 6. I got bottle 2277 of batch 1.

Still haven't tried it as I was on call over the weekend and worked 15 hours both Sat and Sun.

Tentatively planning a blind test w/ Pappy 20 and maybe Jefferson Reserve Wed night.

[Lost Pollito]

Binnys is NOT out. Just dbl checked the site, and it does not say they're out. Plenty of stock.:cool:

[Merlin_AZ]

Found a source for $64.99.
Care to share ?

[onmytrack]

Opened one of the bottles that arrived earlier this week and must say that I am very impressed. Very long on the finish, great nose. This may require that I continue to investigate this bourbon all weekend.

Jim

[Merlin_AZ]

Hey Jim.
I'll let you know if the Fedex guy shows up tomorrow...

[onmytrack]

Merlin - I hope it works out, the JRPS is some great stuff.

Jim

[DukeB]

Really! $92.99 here in the Big O, Ky.

[onmytrack]

Just poured myself some JRPS and the "cork" came out of the stopper (actually the "cork" stayed in the bottle and I had the rest in my hand). That's bad enough, but then I notice it isn't even cork. I know that wine guys are all over screw tops and synthetic cork, but for bourbon? Really? Anybody else think that for 90 bucks, one ought to get cork?

Jim

[IronHead]

Just poured myself some JRPS and the "cork" came out of the stopper (actually the "cork" stayed in the bottle and I had the rest in my hand). That's bad enough, but then I notice it isn't even cork. I know that wine guys are all over screw tops and synthetic cork, but for bourbon? Really? Anybody else think that for 90 bucks, one ought to get cork?

Jim

For Bourbon I don't see any disadvantages of synthetic cork. Since it doesn't age once it hits the bottle something less porous would be better. As long as synthetic cork doesn't turn to some sort of goo with prolonged contact to high alcohol content it would be better in the long run, too. Less chance of cork deterioration.

Since with whiskey the cork is only used as a stopper and not as kind of a test for quality as it is with some wines I almost think we'd be better off with synthetic.

For that money though, I would like my synthetic cork to stay attached to the topper.:cool:

[indyrider]

Just poured myself some JRPS and the "cork" came out of the stopper (actually the "cork" stayed in the bottle and I had the rest in my hand). That's bad enough, but then I notice it isn't even cork.

Jim


Mine as well....Couldnt believe my eyes when I saw the synthetic cork! Makes me ponder the price on this bottle

[whskylvr]

For those West Coaster's. The JRPS was shorted to the distributors and is rescheduled for delivery to Oct 28th. Now we have to wait another month.

[OtisCampbell]

It might be just me but I don't find a lot of what I consider SW profile in this whiskey.
To my tongue, while it is a nice wheater, it doesn't taste
anything like Old Fitz, ORVW 15 or SW sourced Pappys. I was somewhat
disappointed especially since I sprung for a second bottle on faith. :rolleyes:

FWIW

[Special Reserve]

It might be just me but I don't find a lot of what I consider SW profile in this whiskey.
To my tongue, while it is a nice wheater, it doesn't taste
anything like Old Fitz, ORVW 15 or SW sourced Pappys. I was somewhat
disappointed especially since I sprung for a second bottle on faith. :rolleyes:

FWIW

Otis my man!

You waited almost a year and one-half to post your first post. You really must be disappointed with the JRPS. I'd be willing to give it a try.

Anyhow welcome.

Will

[BourbonJoe]

I had a dram of this at Frickys. I found it to be pretty good and definitely in the S-W vain. I think it was from batch 2.
Joe :usflag:

[spun_cookie]

It might be just me but I don't find a lot of what I consider SW profile in this whiskey.
To my tongue, while it is a nice wheater, it doesn't taste
anything like Old Fitz, ORVW 15 or SW sourced Pappys. I was somewhat
disappointed especially since I sprung for a second bottle on faith. :rolleyes:

FWIW


After having a glass myself, I can agree that it is not in the classic 60-70s vein of SW.

I recomend you play with a couple glasses on this bourbon to see if you can optimize. Stay away from Crystal. The Birdman and a couple others have commented on how bitter and woody it is from the crystal Glencairns. Major impact on the taste. The glass Glencairns bring out a much better taste (I too have played with both to confirm....)

I had a dram of this at Frickys. I found it to be pretty good and definitely in the S-W vain. I think it was from batch 2.
Joe :usflag:

I agree. This is right in the heart of the 1992-1994 Old Fitz BIB SW that I have. It reflects the end of the SW life.

[Gillman]

I agree about the Glencairn glass, I would not have thought so a year ago, but I am convinced now that whiskey tastes better out of some glasses than others.

I use something quite like Glencairn but larger, I didn't like it at first but I now I find it is best for whiskey. I don't like the long distance the whiskey takes to travel down the glass frame, that is my only objection.

The JRPW of course won't be quite like 60's and 70's S-W because it is older than any of those and twice as old or more than the typical S-W product. Still, to my taste there are notable resemblances (I have only tried batch 1 so can't comment on batch 2). I find it quite close personally also to the ORVW 15 (the original S-W and even the later Pappy 15 which is very good) and the Pappy 20 and 23. Not identical but even those brands seemed to vary amongst themselves over the years.

This bourbon is a mild-flavoured (as are all wheater bourbons) drink, it can disappoint if taken after some strong-tasting bourbon or any other powerful drink or food. It is best when one hasn't had anything before, or after dinner when the palate has recovered from any strong tasting food, beers or wines. A special occasion bourbon but amongst the best in its class for that I would say.

Gary

[cowdery]

I finally tasted some of the Jefferson's yesterday at Binny's and I agree with what others have said. It's definitely SW whiskey and is very good, although it's not the best SW whiskey I've had by a long shot. It reminds me of that Everett's bottling of Weller 12 from a few years ago, that contained 16- and 14-year-old SW whiskey. A bit overwooded, but still quite tasty.

But, for the money, I'd rather have two bottles of Lot B.

[pepcycle]

This spontaneously started appearing in NY stores in my area. (Stew Leonards, Yonkers)

I won't buy it at the price they're charging, $99, but I didn't think it would make it this far.

[sku]

I got my bottle from Binny's, but this still hasn't shown up in Southern California yet, as far as I know.

[onmytrack]

For those West Coaster's. The JRPS was shorted to the distributors and is rescheduled for delivery to Oct 28th. Now we have to wait another month.

Glad I went on-line and had some shipped in from back East. It's too good to wait.

Jim

[OtisCampbell]

It's available several places around Boston but I'm fairly indifferent after nearly finishing my first bottle. I'll save my sheckles for BTAC and Pappys.

This spontaneously started appearing in NY stores in my area. (Stew Leonards, Yonkers)

I won't buy it at the price they're charging, $99, but I didn't think it would make it this far.

[JohnHansell]

Has anyone compared the different batches? How many have their been so far? Two? I have only tasted Batch #1.

[unclebunk]

I had a few samples at barrel strength (149.9 proof) at Binny's on Saturday. Quite good but heavy on the wood, as noted by Chuck C.

I have yet to come across batches #1 and #2, so cannot confirm that multiple batches exist. I'm sure "Lost Pollito" would know.

[Merlin_AZ]

How many have their been so far? Two?
Hey John.
Mine's batch 2, so I can confirm that.
I haven't tasted batch 1 to compare.

[WsmataU]

I had a few samples at barrel strength (149.9 proof) at Binny's on Saturday. Quite good but heavy on the wood, as noted by Chuck C.

I have yet to come across batches #1 and #2, so cannot confirm that multiple batches exist. I'm sure "Lost Pollito" would know.

:bigeyes:Almost 150 proof? That is disappointing. I've found that my particular taste doesn't care for the highest proofs (GTS for example). I try to start neat and add water as necessary which makes them an inconsistent pour. I'd much rather have a 110-120 proof that I know I like neat.

[Awax1978]

There are at least four batches..I have a bottle from 3 and one from 4.

[Lost Pollito]

:bigeyes:Almost 150 proof? That is disappointing. I've found that my particular taste doesn't care for the highest proofs (GTS for example). I try to start neat and add water as necessary which makes them an inconsistent pour. I'd much rather have a 110-120 proof that I know I like neat.
WsmataU....that was a sample and not the abv that's on the shelf. The shelf proof btl is 94 proof.

[WsmataU]

:slappin:I'm an idiot. I was surprised because I've been so enamored with the JRPS that I didn't think I'd overlook something that significant. I'm still waiting on my first taste, but Jefferson's Reserve is still a favorite of mine.

[Lost Pollito]

Has anyone compared the different batches? How many have their been so far? Two? I have only tasted Batch #1.

We've got batch #1 at the store. Funny thing...I checked the back-stocked and looked at the case box. The bottle pictured on the case says, batch: b-14. How many batches are there? I'd say ask Drew if you see him in SF. They were bottling a new run when we visited during kbf. This whole batch thing will be fun to keep up with.:grin: I suspect there are quite a few different runs off the bottling line in Bardstown.

[jburlowski]

They have batch 6 on the shelf at the Party Source.

[MrAtomic]

Hello All,

I spent some time over the weekend with my bottle of JPS (Batch 1). I don't pretend to possess a large tasting vocabulary, but I do have some thoughts:

I've enjoyed virtually all of the S-W whiskies I've been able to sample. Perhaps the one exception is the "A" bottling of PVW 23, which ia a little dry and lifeless for my taste. I mention PVW 23 because I had a similar reaction to the JPS 17 -- it has a terrific nose, and one that reminds me of PVW 15 and 20, as well as the small number of older production S-W whiskies I've been able to taste.

Despite the sweet, enticing nose, I do not enjoy the taste of JPS very much. Again, it seems to have a lot of wood influence, and tastes "flat." I know that "flat" isn't a generally accepted term so I'll try to explain: At both bottle proof and with a bit of water, the JPS tastes primarily of wood, tempered with just a bit of sweetness at the finish that lingers after swallowing for a few seconds (very pleasantly, I should add). After working my way through a quarter of the bottle over various days and in several types of glass, I'm not picking up much else -- just the dry wood and subtle sweetness immediately before and after swallowing. The mouthfeel isn't excessively thin, but I wouldn't describe it as enhancing the experience, either.

To me, there's little "depth," personally defined as the swirl of multiple (and at times shifting) flavors in a bourbon that encourage me to drink slowly and to tease out these various tastes. As a counter-example, I've also been drinking a bottle of Binny's Hand-Picked Elmer T. Lee (around 14 years old according to Brett, if I remember correctly). Now, I understand that the JPS is a wheated bourbon while the ETL is a rye, but I'd like to compare their basic characteristics -- without arguing that one is "better" than the other.

Where the JPS seems two-dimensional (dry wood into a subtle flash of vanilla), the ETL is more complex -- an oily mouthfeel, some identifiable rye notes, and a candy-like sweetness that builds and eventually overwhelms the spiciness of the rye. Exhaling through my nose when drinking the ETL adds additional interesting flavors without searing my sinuses. It's been fun teasing out these tastes and aromas. I don't find the JPS as entertaining, or as vibrant.

While this may qualify as blasphemy, I decided to mingle some of the JPS with Binny's Hand-Picked Weller 12; I'd say the proportion was 90% JPS to 10% Weller (and possibly even a bit less). To my tastes, the Weller added some terrific life and sweetness between the initial burst of dry wood and lingering, mild vanilla. The mingling did not alter the aroma or fundamental character of the JPS, but transformed it into a more layered and enjoyable whiskey. I'll be doing this again.

Hopefully these thoughts don't cross the line into pretentious "whiskey-speak." Bottom line -- adding a bit of Brett's Weller 12 changed the JPS from a bourbon with a great nose and flat taste into a bourbon with a flash of youthful sweetness. These are just my observations, and not an attempt to rank one bourbon as better than the other. That said, I won't be stockpiling the JPS.

Thanks for reading.

[hectic1]

Great post Paul...

I had pours of Binny's Weller 12 and JRPS last night and I actually prefered the Binny's Weller 12 as the sweet entry was really doing it for me. Nothing wrong with not stock piling the JRPS...I have a couple bottles here and I most likely won't bunker anymore. I will however be bunkering a number of the Binny's Weller 12 bottles when funds allow! ;)

[Gillman]

Very good post, I agree. I took a bit of the same JRPS and batch in my glass to see if I correlate with your comments. I agree it has a great nose, that typical S-W honeyed nose. I can't quite agree on the taste, I find it rich and complex, sweet throughout despite the wood influence. I haven't had recent experience with Van Winkle's 20 and 23 year old bourbon whiskeys, but from what I recollect this is up there with them. I recognize that some of those too offered a different palate over the years. I'd say, it is very good. But taste differs, and I liked how you approached the tasting and you described it very well.

Just another comment, which is really echoing something you said, that it is perhaps difficult to compare a wheat-recipe and rye-recipe bourbon.

Gary

[MrAtomic]

Gillman and Hectic1,

Thanks very much for your comments. I admit, I was a little hesitant to post my lukewarm reactions to a S-W whiskey for fear of being branded a crank with a cast-iron tongue.

Gillman, I had you in mind when I mingled the JRPS with a bit of Binny's Weller 12. I've learned a lot from your posts and appreciate your input on my notes. Based on your interest in the arts of blending and tasting, I thought you'd be interested to know that I sampled the JRPS after a 3-day fast. For medical reasons I have to fast for 1-3 days fairly often and I find that the process has a very significant, positive effect on my sense of taste and smell. After a 3 day fast, even something as bland as a rice cake has a very definite aroma and discernible flavors. It's great fun to sample bourbons with a supercharged palate, and I wanted to find all sorts of new flavors and sensations in the JRPS. I think I picked up more sweetness -- I'm not sure what to call it, but it reminded me of Bulls-Eye candies. Veering slightly off-topic, a taste of cask-strength Caol Ila 10 was like being clouted in the face with a rasher of bacon wrapped in alcohol-soaked peat. Great stuff.

I certainly don't want to discourage anyone from buying the JRPS. Clearly, a lot of members disagree with my observations. Hell, the nose alone is worth quite a bit and I'm looking forward to comparing it with bottles of ORVW 15/20.

[Gillman]

Thanks for those comments, and I should have added earlier that your addition of the Weller 12 made perfect sense. Really you were dropping the average age of the drink by a few years, and it made a difference clearly. I agree too that coming to any of these drinks, or any foods, with a fresh palate can make a significant difference to how we perceive flavour. I won't go so far as to say familiarity breeds contempt, but it does perhaps deaden palate to a degree. I am sure if some could only taste, say, Jack Daniels once a month and have no other liquor - someone who enjoys a drink - it would be rated much higher than sometimes appears from the cognoscenti. (I say this as someone who likes JD and doesn't need that excuse). Anyway, thanks for the reportage, and hopefully there will be more.

Gary

[kateric]

Ok... I'm going to be in the minority here... got my bottle of Jefferson Rsv Pres today and I don't think I'll be opting for a second bottle. The positives: richer than you would think for a 94 proof, spicer than you would think for a wheater, a very nice richness (especially for this proof)... but, there is a 'steeliness' (for a lack of a better word) that is oft-putting to me. I just don't think it is as 'balanced' as say... a WL Weller (BTAC) that is diluted down. In addition, it is definitely not as sweet as a WL Weller (BTAC) diluted down! I think I will either stick to the original Jefferson (for it's unique character) and if I want something more powerful -- I'll just dilute my WL Weller (BTAC); or if I want something in that proof that is smoother, I'll opt for my ER 17, which is also somewhat 'chewier' on the finish. (Sorry if these descriptors are odd to you, but my alcohol vocabulary probably isn't advanced as my experience).

[kateric]

Clarification... I meant to refer to the Jefferson Rsv Very Old (Small Batch) in my previous post when saying I'd opt for it rather than the 17 yr Presidential, not the 'original' Jefferson - which is different than the Very Old Small Batch...

[spun_cookie]

Has anyone seen batch 3, 4 or 5 yet... and is there a batch 7?

[doubleblank]

I'm thru about 1/2 a bottle of Batch 2. I too tend to find the sweet, enticing nose to be followed by a simple mid palate and a rather dry, short finish. That dry finish would normally indicate a wheated bourbon even older that 17 yrs. Perhaps these barrels were stored in the hotter portions of the rickhouse for some period of time?

Randy

[OscarV]

I'm thru about 1/2 a bottle of Batch 2. I too tend to find the sweet, enticing nose to be followed by a simple mid palate and a rather dry, short finish. That dry finish would normally indicate a wheated bourbon even older that 17 yrs. Perhaps these barrels were stored in the hotter portions of the rickhouse for some period of time?

Randy

I have to agree and I'm not quite satisfied with this bottle.
There is a deep nuttiness in the finish all though fairly short.
BTW, I'm referring to Batch #2 also.

[shoshani]

I was a little hesitant to post my lukewarm reactions to a S-W whiskey for fear of being branded a crank with a cast-iron tongue.

Don't be. I haven't bought it and I doubt I will, because this is from S-W's last year of production. By the time this was made the evisceration of Stitzel-Weller had been done: higher barreling proof and a reduction of malt coupled with the inclusion of enzymes.

I'll brand myself a crank with a cast-iron tongue for saying that it may be wheated bourbon from the Stitzel-Weller distillery, but it's not S-W bourbon in the classic sense from when Pappy's Old Fitzgerald made its mark (ha) on the bourbon world.

[sailor22]

The whole SW thing is pretty murky to me - and while I find all these things interesting -- who/when/how/why/who owned/last year/big or small batch/master distiller/son/grandson/cousin/recipe/proof/warehouse/barrel type/location/history/future/marketing/scarcity/last batch -- none are interesting enough to make me buy it unless I thought it was a good pour. It's how it tastes that is the bottom line for me. I got a sample from a friend and liked it - bought two bottles from a different batch number (they taste a little different but still good) and think it is a great $60 bottle of Bourbon. I had to pay more than that because of all the buzz words mentioned above. Sample it and decide if it's worth the buzz word mark up to you.

[MikeK]

I got to taste this last night. It is definitely S/W, a bit lighter than Pappy-15, a bit of wood, but not really that much. It was very nice, I would not mind having a full glass to sit and enjoy at home.

Chuck made a good comparison earlier. This definitely reminds me of the Everetts bottling from a couple years back. Very similar with a bit more wood to it.

A nice drink no doubt, but I'll still take a Pappy instead.

[StraightBoston]

Just found a Batch 3, but didn't pick it up (haven't opened up batch 2 yet!)

[BBQ+Bourbon]

Hello All,

I spent some time over the weekend with my bottle of JPS (Batch 1). I don't pretend to possess a large tasting vocabulary, but I do have some thoughts:

I've enjoyed virtually all of the S-W whiskies I've been able to sample. Perhaps the one exception is the "A" bottling of PVW 23, which ia a little dry and lifeless for my taste. I mention PVW 23 because I had a similar reaction to the JPS 17 -- it has a terrific nose, and one that reminds me of PVW 15 and 20, as well as the small number of older production S-W whiskies I've been able to taste.

Despite the sweet, enticing nose, I do not enjoy the taste of JPS very much. Again, it seems to have a lot of wood influence, and tastes "flat." I know that "flat" isn't a generally accepted term so I'll try to explain: At both bottle proof and with a bit of water, the JPS tastes primarily of wood, tempered with just a bit of sweetness at the finish that lingers after swallowing for a few seconds (very pleasantly, I should add). After working my way through a quarter of the bottle over various days and in several types of glass, I'm not picking up much else -- just the dry wood and subtle sweetness immediately before and after swallowing. The mouthfeel isn't excessively thin, but I wouldn't describe it as enhancing the experience, either.

To me, there's little "depth," personally defined as the swirl of multiple (and at times shifting) flavors in a bourbon that encourage me to drink slowly and to tease out these various tastes. As a counter-example, I've also been drinking a bottle of Binny's Hand-Picked Elmer T. Lee (around 14 years old according to Brett, if I remember correctly). Now, I understand that the JPS is a wheated bourbon while the ETL is a rye, but I'd like to compare their basic characteristics -- without arguing that one is "better" than the other.

Where the JPS seems two-dimensional (dry wood into a subtle flash of vanilla), the ETL is more complex -- an oily mouthfeel, some identifiable rye notes, and a candy-like sweetness that builds and eventually overwhelms the spiciness of the rye. Exhaling through my nose when drinking the ETL adds additional interesting flavors without searing my sinuses. It's been fun teasing out these tastes and aromas. I don't find the JPS as entertaining, or as vibrant.

While this may qualify as blasphemy, I decided to mingle some of the JPS with Binny's Hand-Picked Weller 12; I'd say the proportion was 90% JPS to 10% Weller (and possibly even a bit less). To my tastes, the Weller added some terrific life and sweetness between the initial burst of dry wood and lingering, mild vanilla. The mingling did not alter the aroma or fundamental character of the JPS, but transformed it into a more layered and enjoyable whiskey. I'll be doing this again.

Hopefully these thoughts don't cross the line into pretentious "whiskey-speak." Bottom line -- adding a bit of Brett's Weller 12 changed the JPS from a bourbon with a great nose and flat taste into a bourbon with a flash of youthful sweetness. These are just my observations, and not an attempt to rank one bourbon as better than the other. That said, I won't be stockpiling the JPS.

Thanks for reading.

Your impression and mine were similar as was my reaction. I mixed a splash of OWA with it and found it to be much better. This was very disappointing considering the respective price of the two bottles.

I will be looking to dump the two unopened bottles I have in favor of something else.

[spun_cookie]

Anyone seen Batches 4 or 5? I am trying to locate one of each...

[WsmataU]

Anyone seen Batches 4 or 5? I am trying to locate one of each...

Yeah I snagged two bottles of batch four (in MD) but haven't opened one yet. I'd love to hear your impressions.

[dgonano]

Yea, I ordered 3 bottles in Maryland but, of course, the retailer was required to purchase the full six pack case. I bought the case...1 bottle from batch 3 and 5 bottles from batch 4. I already have some batch 1 from the KBF week.

[cowdery]

What is the deal with these "batches" anyway? What constitutes a batch?

[spun_cookie]

Got a batch 4 today (well virtually) from a member... down to needing Batch 5 and I will have 1 of the first 6.

I heard about a batch 7 that turned up... not sure I want to go beyond the first 6 that were all relased at the same time...

Anyone know how many batches of this "limited" product that will be out? or how many bottles or barrels per batch?

I read that there were 400 barreles, 2100 cases, 12600 bottles were in work before, but that was not all the SW juice they had... asI understand it.

The quick math tells me about 2100 bottles per batch of ~67 barrels per batch, but that may not be correct if there were more than 6 batches in the first 400 barrels.

[spun_cookie]

What is the deal with these "batches" anyway? What constitutes a batch?

Got a batch 4 today (well virtually) from a member... down to needing Batch 5 and I will have 1 of the first 6.

I heard about a batch 7 that turned up... not sure I want to go beyond the first 6 that were all relased at the same time...

Anyone know how many batches of this "limited" product that will be out? or how many bottles or barrels per batch?

I read that there were 400 barreles, 2100 cases, 12600 bottles were in work before, but that was not all the SW juice they had... asI understand it.

The quick math tells me about 2100 bottles per batch of ~67 barrels per batch, but that may not be correct if there were more than 6 batches in the first 400 barrels.



Now that is funny Chuck... thinking the same thing...

[whskylvr]

JRPS was produced in 6 packs and 3000 cases were produced. So thats 18000 bottles. They do have more and are looking at producing an 18 yr next year. Hope this helps.

[spun_cookie]

JRPS was produced in 6 packs and 3000 cases were produced. So thats 18000 bottles. They do have more and are looking at producing an 18 yr next year. Hope this helps.

Nice... How about batch size?

[whskylvr]

Spun-

I hope to have an answer shortly as to batch size. I know that the Jefferson, Jefferson Reserve (Mclain and Kyne) bottle is in very small batches of 8 -12 barrels. So if they are using this same method than 7 batches would be around 2571 bottles per batch (more or less). How many bottles come out of a standard bourbon barrel (240 approx??) that would be 10 barrels per batch.

I will post actual info as soon as I receive it.

[spun_cookie]

Spun-

I hope to have an answer shortly as to batch size. I know that the Jefferson, Jefferson Reserve (Mclain and Kyne) bottle is in very small batches of 8 -12 barrels. So if they are using this same method than 7 batches would be around 2571 bottles per batch (more or less). How many bottles come out of a standard bourbon barrel (240 approx??) that would be 10 barrels per batch.

I will post actual info as soon as I receive it.

Thank you sir. With a 17 yr.. I thought it would be aroud 150per bottle at 94 proof...

[dgonano]

The older Jefferson Reserve..the 15yr...had 2400 bottles per batch.
These batches are probably the same amount or close. I received bottle #2397 of batch 3 and low bottle numbers of batch 4. I assume that there is a maximum number of barrels that can be dumped at one time. So each batch ,in theory, could be slightly different in character.

[BBQ+Bourbon]

I tried this one again last night, and my impression has changed significantly. This pour was much better than I remembered it being. The oak is prevalent, but I found a nice profile under the oak and the finish is weak, but not entirely absent.

To be honest, I was really unhappy about having three bottles of this one until last night.

[hectic1]

I tried this one again last night, and my impression has changed significantly. This pour was much better than I remembered it being. The oak is prevalent, but I found a nice profile under the oak and the finish is weak, but not entirely absent.

To be honest, I was really unhappy about having three bottles of this one until last night.
I really anticipated you liking the JRPS on the second time around a bit more then the first...same with your Pappy 15. Wheaters tend to get better once they have been opened and had some time to breath! Revisit your Pappy 15 too and let us know what you think! :)

[BBQ+Bourbon]

I really anticipated you liking the JRPS on the second time around a bit more then the first...same with your Pappy 15. Wheaters tend to get better once they have been opened and had some time to breath! Revisit your Pappy 15 too and let us know what you think! :)
I'll do that soon! Tomorrow I'll have a new Pappy 15 to replace the tainted bottle.

[jburlowski]

JRPS was produced in 6 packs and 3000 cases were produced. So thats 18000 bottles. They do have more and are looking at producing an 18 yr next year. Hope this helps.

An 18 yo? Great... even more oak

[ama]

I can confirm batch 7. Saw it today on the shelves, passed on it for $100 and got two Pappy 15s for $55 each.

[spun_cookie]

holly holliday log batman... that is nucking futs...

[Ruby K]

I can confirm batch 7. Saw it today on the shelves, passed on it for $100 and got two Pappy 15s for $55 each.

where did you see pappy15 for $55? Or at least what locality?

[ama]

Minnesota, they had everything but the Rye and the new $350 23yo.

[Ruby K]

jeez. meanwhile, kinda whising i could make that trade right now. would even do it for two bottles of 12B. not somuch feeling the JPRS. Definitely not drinking like a 89.99 whiskey.

[cas]

The JRPS 17 showed up locally this past week. At $95 I've resisted. So far...
Craig

[Special Reserve]

The JRPS 17 showed up locally this past week. At $95 I've resisted. So far...
Craig

I picked up a batch 4 but it remains unopened. Someday I'll take the plunge.

[RWBadley]

I picked up a batch 4 but it remains unopened. Someday I'll take the plunge.

Mine is also a batch 4. I've been really enjoying it. I have compared it to the latest Pappy 20, and while I find both to be exceptional whiskey- the 17 has that certain something that makes me say 'yum' every time.

Just my .02

[OscarV]

FYI, Binny's in Chi-Town has JRPS 17yr on sale for $79.99, they ship to most states but not to MI.

[Lost Pollito]

The forbidden mitten. :lol: I could not resist. Batch 1 at Binny's btw.

[tommyboy38]

Maybe I'd grab one for $80. The ones I saw today were $100.

[cas]

FYI, Binny's in Chi-Town has JRPS 17yr on sale for $79.99, they ship to most states but not to MI.

Thats what I got it for yesterday. Batch 2.
Craig

[Old Lamplighter]

Since I have just about broken my fever to buy one of the ORVW 23 sets, I may give this one a second look as a viable alternative to satisfy my recent urges. Over in Memphis, the only bottles I recall seeing were from Batch 7, can't remember the proof and running $95 plus tax.

Has anyone seen, or better yet purchased & sampled, this particular batch? Also, does each batch indicate a single barrel bottling? After quickly browsing thru this thread last night, all I recall seeing thus far is single-digit batch numbers. Wonder if there will be future or yearly bottlings of these until the barrels are exausted. Or, are they already exausted? That may be another bit of info being kept close to the vest by the bottler(?).

[silverfish]

Valentine's Day present from my wife - bottle # 371 from batch 3 :D

[OscarV]

Over in Memphis, the only bottles I recall seeing were from Batch 7, can't remember the proof and running $95 plus tax.

Has anyone seen, or better yet purchased & sampled, this particular batch? Also, does each batch indicate a single barrel bottling?

Nope, no experience here with #7.
I have had this whiskey straight out of the barrel uncut, and I have had Batch #2, there's no comparision.
Money seems to be an underlying theme, so,...
Here's my suggestion, buy a bottle of Old Rip 10yo 107prf and a Van Winkle Lot B.
You'll be miles ahead.

[sailor22]

Here's my suggestion, buy a bottle of Old Rip 10yo 107prf and a Van Winkle Lot B.
You'll be miles ahead.

That's some good advice.

[Old Lamplighter]

That's some good advice.

Good advice noted......and taken.

[Ultra]

Lookin thru this inspired me to pour a glass.

Mighty fucking fine bourbon boys and girls. Go get some while you can.

[fishnbowljoe]

Over in Memphis, the only bottles I recall seeing were from Batch 7, can't remember the proof and running $95 plus tax.

FWIW, I was chatting in the gazebo with a member who has had bottles from batches 2,3 and & 7. He said the batch 7 was better than the other two. Definitely SW juice. Joe

[Lost Pollito]

FWIW, I was chatting in the gazebo with a member who has had bottles from batches 2,3 and & 7. He said the batch 7 was better than the other two. Definitely SW juice. Joe
Depends on how much He had. I believe they're all the same.:grin: