Jefferson's Ocean Aged At Sea Bourbon goes through a unique maturation process that sets it apart from other bourbons. The bourbon initially spends around seven to eight years aging in American oak casks on land. This period allows the bourbon to develop its character and flavors, absorbing the rich notes from the oak.
However, what truly sets Jefferson's Ocean apart is the additional aging period it undergoes at sea. After the initial years on land, the casks are carefully loaded onto a ship, where they continue to mature for another five to ten months. This maritime aging process exposes the bourbon to the constant movement and changing temperatures of the ocean, which can have a profound impact on its flavor profile.
The length of time the bourbon spends at sea can vary slightly, as it depends on the specific voyage and the conditions encountered during the journey. The rocking motion of the ship and the exposure to the salty ocean air can influence the aging process, causing the bourbon to develop unique characteristics not found in traditional land-aged bourbons.
During its time at sea, the bourbon experiences a constant ebb and flow of temperature and humidity, which can lead to increased interaction between the whiskey and the oak casks. This interaction allows the bourbon to further extract flavors and nuances from the wood, resulting in a more complex and matured spirit.
The idea of aging bourbon at sea was inspired by the historical practice of transporting spirits by ship. In the past, barrels of whiskey were often shipped long distances on the ocean, and it was discovered that the movement and exposure to the elements enhanced the flavor of the whiskey. Jefferson's Ocean aims to recreate this traditional aging method, bringing a touch of history and adventure to the bourbon-making process.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste Jefferson's Ocean Aged At Sea Bourbon, and I must say, it is a truly unique and fascinating spirit. The additional months spent at sea impart a distinct briny note, reminiscent of the ocean, which adds an extra layer of complexity to the bourbon's flavor profile. The maritime aging process also seems to smooth out any harsh edges, resulting in a remarkably smooth and well-rounded bourbon.
Jefferson's Ocean Aged At Sea Bourbon is aged on land for approximately seven to eight years before being loaded onto a ship for an additional five to ten months of aging at sea. This unique maturation process adds depth, complexity, and a touch of adventure to the bourbon, making it a truly special spirit worth experiencing.