Whiskey Review: Jefferson’s Reserve Pritchard Hill Cabernet Cask Finished

Just as they would in a wine vs. whiskey beverage tasting, the wine elements do not hold up once the full palate becomes involved. The trademark zippy sweetness I’ve come to expect from Jefferson’s is present as soon as it hits the tongue, a bit flabby, but supported somewhat by a clean, fortified heat. I immediately taste dates and apricots, all underneath a prominent note of buttery pastry. There is a tinge here which reveals itself mid-to-late palate, a brightness verging on acidity, that feels like the expression of the Cabernet kisses. Not wine-like per se, but possessing hints of lemon zest and more of those cherry-like oxidative flavors. The finish is a dry reminder of double oaking, and lingers long with dust and fire. Final Thoughts and Score: This is a good bourbon, although the appearance is the main giveaway that it’s spent time nesting in a Cabernet barrel – and you can’t taste appearance. For a well-aged whiskey that’s sippable with few flaws, I plan to happily enjoy the rest of this bottle. For the price and promise, however, it may fall short to the consumer who is seeking out something with boundary-crossing hybrid wine/whiskey flavors.