Irish Distillers has joined forces with Eight Degrees Brewing to create a second experimental limited edition of the beloved Jameson Crested X. Launching this month, Jameson Crested X Finished in Devil’s Ladder Belgian Tripel Barrels is the next step in an exciting collaboration between Irish Distillers and its Co. Cork neighbour, Eight Degrees.
Making the most of their close relationship, in 2020 Eight Degrees finished their Belgian Tripel craft beer in Jameson sherry casks. Named Devil’s Ladder after the best-known hiking route up Ireland’s tallest peak, the beer truly takes taste to new heights.
Always seeking an opportunity to innovate, Jameson returned the compliment by selecting a special whiskey to mature in the beer-soaked barrels. After four months of maturation, the result is a stunning evolution of Jameson Crested, with abundant spices, floral hops and sweetness, while the oak and malt work in tandem to add a toasted cereal character.
Irish Distillers’ Blender Dave McCabe explains:
“It’s no secret that the flavours found in beer and whiskey complement each other. We are delighted that in recent years our relationship and indeed proximity to Eight Degrees Brewing here in Cork has created a canvas for collaboration and experimentation in this space, both as part of the Jameson Caskmates Series and beyond. The Belgian Tripel beer finish brings a balanced contribution to Jameson Crested, accentuating elements such as sweetness in the form of vanilla and brown sugar, as well as a roasted malt character and elevated clove notes,”
Daniel O’Shea, Head Brewer at Eight Degrees Brewing adds:
“It was in the spirit of innovation that we decided to rest Devil’s Ladder in Jameson sherry casks, adding sweetness and Christmas cake notes to our Belgian Tripel. We are thrilled that the story has now come full circle, with our beer imparting a delicate hoppy character to this iconic Irish whiskey.”
A limited-edition release of fewer than 6,000 bottles, Jameson Crested Finished in Devil’s Ladder Belgian Tripel Barrelswill launch in O’Brien’s Wines from 23rd April, specialist retailers off-licenses from 26th April, and select markets through Jameson’s online shop at jamesonwhiskey.com from 28th April priced at €50 (70cl).
Tasting Notes, by Dave McCabe, Blender, Midleton Distillery
Nose: Initial notes of clove spice and cinnamon along with rich caramelised brown sugar and a roasted malt character that complements the sherry casks’ influence of toasted oak and dried fruits.
Taste: Round with abundant spices and a delicate floral hoppy character. The vanilla sweetness comes to the fore with a soft fruit note lingering in the background while the oak and malt work in tandem adding a toasted cereal element to the whiskey.
Finish: Lingering with the spices slowly fading, allowing the sweet nature of the oak and malt to remain until the very end.
The First Step Cocktail
Ingredients:
- 35.5ml Jameson Crested X Devils ladder
- 150ml Apple Juice
- 3 dashes of cardamom bitters
To Make:
- Fill glass with ice.
- Pour whiskey.
- Add apple juice.
- Add 3 dashes of bitters, quick stir.
- Garnish with apple fan or wedge, serve.
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