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Isle of Jura Superstition, single malt scotch, Islands, 90 proof, $48
Isle of Jura Origin 10yr, single malt scotch, Islands, 86 proof, $43
Looking at a basic map of Scotland
several years ago, I made the assumption that one got to Islay
by way of Jura, with a quick ferry ride at each end of the island. I later
learned that this was not the case and that the only way to Jura (at least with
a car) was via a short ferry ride from Islay, after having taken a much longer
ferry ride from the mainland to Islay.
What I had once imagined would be an obligatory visit to the
Isle of Jura distillery on the way to Islay, turned out to be an optional day
trip that didn’t fit very well into the schedule of my trip around Scotland. Having
tasted only one example of single malt from Jura, and not being all that
impressed by it, the optional day trip was one that I never even seriously
considered.
During my stay on Islay, I
was treated to glorious views of the Paps of Jura (a small group of steep,
rounded mountains that rise dramatically from the sea) from a multitude of locations.
Since my return home, I have sampled an offering from the Isle of Jura
distillery that I have a much more favorable opinion of.
Next time I am on Islay,
the optional side trip will be seriously considered. For now, I can compare the
two above mentioned single malts.
Superstition
A vatting of older Jura and younger, more heavily peated Jura.
Medium golden-amber in color. The assertive, fragrant nose has a mix of peat
smoke, malt, perfume and pine. It’s a little hot across the palate, with moderate
peat smoke quickly followed by strong perfumed floral flavors. The two flavors
seem to be at odds with each other, not in harmony. The finish has some length
and warmth, with dry spice notes joining the fray at the end, but the flavors put
forth still fail to impress overall.
Origin 10yr
Made from lightly peated malt. Almost identical in color to
the Superstition, maybe just the slightest bit lighter. The nose is also similar
to the Superstition, but with a lower proportion of peat smoke, and everything
more subdued overall. It has mild peat on the palate, balanced by caramelized
malt flavors. Gentle, not aggressive. Respectably long finish with subtle
floral notes emerging, and then giving way to a dry spiced ending. While it’s
not terribly complex at any given point, the flavors evolve nicely and are well
integrated. Quite enjoyable.
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