As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting many different whiskies from around the world, including the Jura 10. When it comes to the question of whether Jura 10 is smoky, the answer is both yes and no.
Jura 10 is a well-balanced whisky that combines elements of both smoky and unpeated whisky. The distillery uses a combination of bourbon casks for maturation and sherry casks for finishing, which adds complexity and depth to the final product.
The smoky aspect of Jura 10 comes from the peated whiskies that are used in the blend. Peat is a type of vegetation that is burned during the malting process, resulting in a distinct smoky flavor that is characteristic of many Islay whiskies. While Jura is not an Islay distillery, they do incorporate some peated whiskies into their range, including the 10-year-old expression.
However, it is important to note that the smokiness in Jura 10 is not as pronounced as in some other peated whiskies. It is more subtle and well-integrated, allowing other flavors to shine through. This makes Jura 10 a great choice for those who enjoy a hint of smokiness without it overpowering the other flavors in the whisky.
In addition to the smokiness, Jura 10 also showcases fresh fruit notes, thanks to the use of unpeated whiskies in the blend. These fruit flavors, such as apples and pears, provide a nice contrast to the smokiness and add a touch of sweetness to the whisky.
I would say that Jura 10 strikes a good balance between smoky and unpeated whisky. It offers a subtle smokiness that is well-integrated with other flavors, allowing for a complex and enjoyable drinking experience. Whether you prefer smoky whiskies or not, Jura 10 is definitely worth a try for its unique blend of flavors.
To sum up, Jura 10 is a whisky that combines elements of both smoky and unpeated whisky. The smokiness is present but not overpowering, allowing other flavors to come through. This makes it a versatile and well-balanced choice for whisky enthusiasts.