I always find it fascinating to observe the evolution of a distillery’s whisky over the years and decades, although I don’t often have the chance to do so. Thanks to whisky auctions, particularly miniature ones before Brexit, when access to a wide variety of whisky minis and full bottles was easier, I’ve been able to explore more. A few years ago, I purchased three minis of Jura 10-year-old, bottled from the 1980s to the 2000s. This will provide me with the opportunity to analyse how this particular expression of Jura’s core range has developed over these decades.
Jura 10-Year-Old (1980s) Review
The initial release of Jura 10-year-old dates back to the 1980s, characterised by its distinctive ‘old oval label.’ This bottling was originally at 40% ABV, though records suggest there may also have been a 43% ABV variation, possibly from an earlier period in the same decade or earlier.
Colour:
Burnished
Nose:
Neat: Initially, the nose presents a combination of malt and grain, albeit with a subtle intensity. There are faint floral hints discernible, but after allowing the whisky to sit in the glass for a few minutes, the aromas seem to dissipate entirely.
Palate:
Neat: Surprisingly, the palate offers a richer mouthfeel than anticipated, suggesting a strength slightly beyond 40%. Abundant notes of caramel and oak are prominent, accompanied by a hint of wood bitterness and a subtle pepperiness. The second sip reveals a slightly thinner texture, with nuances of ginger, vanilla extract, blood orange peel, and a delicate hint of smoke. By the third sip, the experience leans towards a sweeter profile akin to sugary water, yet retaining a lingering bitterness.
Finish:
The finish is medium in length and maintains the presence of bitter and peppery notes, complemented by subtle hints of icing sugar.
Comments:
Well, it’s not as terrible as I initially anticipated. The nose fades quickly, and while the palate isn’t exceptional, it’s not dreadful either. It’s somewhat less disappointing than expected, especially considering I’m not particularly fond of Jura whiskies. However, it still falls short of being average.
Rating: 4/10
Jura 10-year-old (1990s) Review
The second Jura 10-year-old maintains the same bottle shape, but with a square label adorned with a vertical drawing of the Isle of Jura. Bottled during the 1990s, it shares the same ABV of 40%.
Colour:
Amontillado.
Nose:
Neat: In comparison to the 1980s expression, this one presents a fruitier profile, with prominent notes of banana and pear, alongside unexpected hints of durian. There’s a suggestion of decay reminiscent of fruits beginning to ferment, akin to a compost box. Amidst this, delicate floral aromas mingle with subtle grainy notes.
Palate:
Neat: Compared to the 1980s release, this expression feels thinner on the palate, yet carries a sweeter disposition. Initially, it offers a taste akin to sweet, malty water, followed by robust woody and herbal bitterness reminiscent of spent tea leaves.
Finish:
The herbal bitterness persists into the finish, accompanied by notes of pepper and a hint of salt. After some time, nuances of dark chocolate emerge, extending the finish which proves to be notably long.
Comments:
Despite the unexpected durian note, the nose is an improvement, but unfortunately, the palate falls short, resulting in an unchanged rating overall. Let’s hope for better with the final one!
Rating: 4/10
Jura 10-year-old (2000s) Review
The third and final Jura 10-year-old sampled today was bottled in the 2000s, distinguished by a yellow longitudinal label and a red cap. Like its predecessors, it maintains an ABV of 40%.
Colour:
Old gold
Nose:
Neat: The nose is fruity, with pronounced notes of apricot, peach, plums, and grapes, intertwined with hints of vanilla and honey. There’s a subtle suggestion of wet peat alongside a rustic aroma reminiscent of a farmyard stable.
Palate:
Neat: Initially, there’s again a taste akin to sweet malty water, followed by the bitterness of tea leaves. Subtle hints of coconut and vanilla emerge, leading into a medley of fruit notes including lemon, grapefruit, and plums. An unexpected but nostalgic touch of chocolate cornflake cakes. However, the mouthfeel remains thin throughout.
Finish:
The finish introduces a peppery kick, followed by lingering notes of chocolate cornflakes and a reminiscent flavour of cake frosting, akin to the icing found on a gâteau Nantais.
Comments:
It seems my hopes were answered with this Jura, as it boasts a well-balanced nose and palate without any off-putting notes. While it may not be outstanding, it’s certainly drinkable. However, it’s disappointing that it’s still bottled at 40% ABV; a higher strength could have improved the mouthfeel and likely preserved more flavours by avoiding chill filtration.
