As an expert sommelier and brewer, I've had the opportunity to taste and experience a wide range of whiskies. When it comes to Jura, I was quite intrigued to learn that their Superstition release was no longer in production. The Superstition was a unique expression that combined both peated and unpeated whiskies, creating a complex and smoky flavor profile. However, change is a constant in the whisky world, and Jura had a new lineup to offer.
The replacement for Jura Superstition came in the form of five new single malt releases. The first one is called Journey, which is the entry-level expression in the range. It is a light and delicate whisky, perfect for those who are just starting to explore the world of Jura. The Journey offers notes of honey, citrus, and a hint of smoke, providing a pleasant and approachable drinking experience.
Moving up the ladder, we have the 10-year-old and 12-year-old expressions. These whiskies showcase the classic Jura style, with the 10-year-old offering a balance of sweet and smoky flavors, and the 12-year-old presenting a more mature and refined profile. Both expressions exhibit a complexity of flavors, including dried fruits, vanilla, spice, and a gentle touch of smoke.
One of the most interesting additions to the range is the Seven Wood expression. As the name suggests, this whisky is matured in seven different types of wood, resulting in a unique and intricate flavor profile. The combination of ex-bourbon barrels, American white oak, Vosges, Jupilles, Les Bertranges, and Limousin oak casks creates a whisky with layers of vanilla, toffee, chocolate, and a touch of spice. The Seven Wood is a testament to the craftsmanship and experimentation of Jura distillery.
We have the 18-year-old expression, which represents the pinnacle of the range. This whisky is aged for a significant amount of time, allowing it to develop depth and complexity. The 18-year-old offers a rich and indulgent drinking experience, with flavors of dark chocolate, dried fruits, nuts, and a lingering smokiness. It is a whisky that demands attention and rewards those who savor every sip.
Having had the opportunity to taste and evaluate these new expressions, I can say that while the Superstition may be missed by some, the replacements certainly hold their own. Each expression in the new lineup brings something unique to the table and showcases the craftsmanship and dedication of Jura distillery. It's always exciting to see distilleries evolve and experiment with new releases, and Jura has done just that with their new range of single malts.