I
have
to admit that when I received this bottle of Jim
Beam Double Oak Bourbon, I guessed it would probably cost
well over $100.00 (if not hundreds of dollars) per bottle
because it came ensconced in a beautiful oak case that was
secured by two rather wide and weathered metal bands and weighed
nearly 10 pounds. Not only was the outside of this case just
drop dead gorgeous, with its carved logo, inside the lid there
was the story of this bourbon printed on dark blue paper in
gold letters and covered over by plastic and secured with
four brass bolts. Turns out, this spirit can actually be purchased
for between $26.95 and $30.70 per 750ml bottle, but it will
come in a cardboard box that is quite nice but certainly not
as eye catching as this oak case.
Most
times fancy packaging relates to fancy pricing. I have seen
cognacs that go for thousands of dollars that come in rare
and exotic glass bottles and unbelievable boxes that just
reek of money. Then there's that million dollar bottle of
Russian vodka that comes in a solid gold container! I guess
this oak case was meant to get my attention, and it most certainly
did. If you get lucky, you just might find this bourbon in
this case around Christmas time.
As
the name implies, this Double Oak bourbon has been aged in
charred American white oak barrels twice. The first ageing
is for four years and then after the transfer for a further
short maturation to taste. That much effort should produce
some mighty deep spirits with a ton of flavor, so let's get
to it and see if I'm right. By the way, it comes in a new
bottle which has "unique contours, glass embossing and
engraving, along with a textured label and foiling."
The liquid inside is a deep amber color.
The
nose is rich, oaky and smoky with vanilla and caramel notes.
On the palate, the oak and vanilla intensify and become spicy
and yet sweet with further notes of vanilla and, now, burnt
caramel. The finish is long and sweet and spicy. This is an
intense bourbon that highlights all the good features of a
Jim Beam Bourbon. That double ageing has literally doubled
the flavors. This bourbon might be a bit too intense for some
to swallow neat, but on the rocks. it settles down and behaves
beautifully and transforms into a righteous sipper. The fullness
of the flavors and spice notes will definitely not get lost
in a mixed drink, thus making this a strong candidate for
your favorite cocktails.
It's
86 proof or 43% ABV.
By George Brozowski
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