Jameson is a renowned whiskey that is produced from a unique blend of both grain whiskey and single pot still whiskey. This distinctive blend sets Jameson apart from other whiskeys and contributes to its distinct flavor profile. The single pot still whiskey used in Jameson is made from a combination of malted and unmalted barley, also referred to as “green” Irish barley. These barley grains are sourced exclusively from within a fifty-mile radius around the Jameson distillery in Cork, Ireland.
The use of both malted and unmalted barley in the production of single pot still whiskey is a traditional method that dates back centuries in Ireland. This combination of barley imparts a unique character and flavor to the whiskey. The malted barley brings a rich sweetness and depth, while the unmalted barley adds a smoothness and subtle spice.
To produce Jameson, the barley is first dried in a closed kiln. In the past, anthracite coal was used as the fuel source for drying the barley, but now natural gas is used. This drying process is crucial as it stops the germination of the barley and develops the flavors that will be present in the whiskey.
After the barley is dried, it is then milled and mixed with hot water to convert the starches into fermentable sugars. This mixture is known as the mash. The mash is then transferred to fermentation vessels, where yeast is added to initiate the fermentation process. During fermentation, the yeast consumes the sugars in the mash and converts them into alcohol, creating a liquid known as wash.
Once fermentation is complete, the wash is distilled in copper pot stills. This distillation process is carried out in three separate stages to ensure the removal of impurities and to concentrate the desired flavors. The first distillation produces a low-strength spirit called “low wines,” which is then redistilled in the second distillation. the spirit is distilled for a third time to create the final product known as “new make spirit.”
At this point, the new make spirit is a highly concentrated, high-strength alcohol. To achieve the desired flavor and smoothness, the new make spirit is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years. The aging process allows the whiskey to develop complex flavors and aromas, as well as mellow out any harshness from the distillation process.
Jameson is a blend of both grain whiskey and single pot still whiskey. The single pot still whiskey is made from a combination of malted and unmalted Irish barley, sourced from the distillery's local area. The use of both types of barley contributes to the unique flavor profile of Jameson. the production process of Jameson involves careful selection of ingredients, drying of barley, fermentation, distillation, and aging in oak barrels, all of which contribute to the exceptional quality and taste of this renowned Irish whiskey.