Willett
KBD/Willett Jailhouse Blues 12-year 114pf. 1995 - 114 Proof
Experience the legendary 'Jailhouse Blues Old Style Jazzy Bourbon 1995,' a 12-year-old masterpiece bottled at an impressive 114 proof. Its uncharted origins only add to the allure of this rich, complex bourbon, bursting with aged oak, dark fruit, and captivating spice. A truly rare find, this 1995 vintage promises an unforgettable journey for the discerning palate. Oh Yeah!
Tasting Notes
Nose: A captivating and complex nose immediately greets you with rich aromas of aged oak, sweet pipe tobacco, and dried dark fruits like figs and dates, intertwined with hints of caramel, vanilla bean, and a subtle underlying spice of nutmeg and clove. As it opens, delicate floral notes emerge, alongside a surprising freshness of orange zest and a whisper of antique leather, hinting at its prolonged slumber.
Palate: The palate delivers a robust and velvety texture, perfectly showcasing its 114 proof without being overtly fiery. Initial flavors burst forth with deep, dark cherry and blackberry, quickly followed by a wave of butterscotch, rich toffee, and dark chocolate. The oak influence is paramount but beautifully integrated, offering notes of toasted wood, roasted nuts, and a hint of charred barrel. A medley of baking spices – cinnamon, allspice, and a fleeting hint of star anise – dance on the tongue, balanced by a subtle yet persistent sweetness reminiscent of maple syrup and honey.
Finish: The finish is exceptionally long and satisfying, warming the chest with a cascade of lingering flavors. Sweet oak and dark fruit notes gradually fade, replaced by a delightful interplay of leather, tobacco, and a gentle wood smoke. The spice recedes gracefully, leaving a pleasant warmth and a final resonate note of aged caramel and a touch of roasted coffee bean. The higher proof ensures a memorable, contemplative departure that invites another sip.
About the Distillery
The 'Jailhouse Blues Old Style Jazzy Bourbon 1995' emanates from an undisclosed distillery, a characteristic often found in rare, special releases from smaller, boutique operations or from larger distilleries releasing limited, experimental batches without revealing their identity. This anonymity frequently contributes to its mystique and desirability among collectors and connoisseurs, suggesting a focus on the liquid itself rather than marketing prowess.