As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and analyze various types of whiskeys, including Jameson and Jameson Crested. The difference between these two lies primarily in their composition and aging process.
Jameson is a well-known Irish whiskey brand that has been around for centuries. It is a blended whiskey, meaning it is made by combining different types of whiskey together. Jameson is made from a mix of malted and unmalted barley, which is then triple-distilled in copper pot stills. The resulting spirit is smooth, light, and has a hint of sweetness.
On the other hand, Jameson Crested is a variation of the original Jameson blend. It was previously known as Jameson's Crested Ten but has undergone a rebranding with an updated look while maintaining the same blend. The main difference in Jameson Crested lies in its aging process and the proportion of pot still whiskey used.
In the production of Jameson Crested, a higher measure of pure pot still whiskey is used compared to the original Jameson blend. Pot still whiskey is produced using a traditional method that involves a combination of malted and unmalted barley and is distilled in copper pot stills. This type of whiskey adds a rich and robust flavor profile to the blend.
Additionally, a fair proportion of the pot still whiskey used in Jameson Crested has been aged in sherry casks. Sherry casks are wooden barrels that have previously held sherry wine. This aging process imparts a distinctive spicy sweetness to the whiskey, adding complexity and depth to the overall flavor.
The use of sherry casks in the aging process of Jameson Crested sets it apart from the original Jameson blend. The sherry cask aging adds a unique dimension to the whiskey, with notes of dried fruits, spices, and a touch of oak. It creates a more rounded and flavorful experience for whiskey enthusiasts.
In terms of taste, Jameson has a delicate and smooth character with hints of vanilla, toasted wood, and light fruitiness. It is a versatile whiskey that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in various cocktails. On the other hand, Jameson Crested offers a more robust and complex flavor profile. The sherry cask aging adds a layer of spiciness, along with a deeper sweetness and a richer mouthfeel.
Personal Experience: I have had the opportunity to taste both Jameson and Jameson Crested on multiple occasions. While I appreciate the smoothness and lightness of Jameson, I find myself drawn to the complexity and depth of flavor in Jameson Crested. The sherry cask aging adds a unique twist that sets it apart from other Irish whiskeys. It is particularly enjoyable when sipped neat or with a splash of water to fully appreciate its flavors.
To summarize, the difference between Jameson and Jameson Crested lies in the composition and aging process. Jameson Crested contains a higher proportion of pot still whiskey and has been aged in sherry casks, which adds complexity, spiciness, and sweetness to the blend. Both whiskeys offer a distinct taste experience, with Jameson being smoother and lighter, while Jameson Crested provides a more robust and flavorful profile.