Whiskey Review: Widow Jane Decadence Maple Syrup Barrel Finish

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was provided to us as a review sample by Widow Jane. This in no way, per our editorial policies, influenced the final outcome of this review. It should also be noted that by clicking the buy link towards the bottom of this review our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.

Widow Jane Distillery has re-released its Widow Jane Decadence expression finished in maple syrup barrels. They take their signature 10-year-old bourbon and blend in small batches. When bottled, the bourbon is cut with limestone water from the Rosendale Mines—100 miles north of the distillery’s Brooklyn location. The Widow Jane Mine once was a cement mine that gave rise to iconic public works projects all over the state of New York.

The maple syrup barrels are provided by Crown Maple. The 800-acre organic family farm has been making maple syrup since 2010. In 2014, the partnership between Widow Jane began. Widow Jane supplies the spent whiskey barrels to Crown Maple for the bourbon-aged maple syrup.

When Widow Jane Decadence first launched in 2020, about 3,000 to 3,330 bottles made it to the shelves. The 2021 batch releases (fall and winter) have produced about 12,000 bottles. So far, the whiskey is only available in the following states: NY, NJ, MA, MD, FL, TX, IL, CA, and CO. However, it should be known that previous releases sold out within two days of being stocked.

Widow Jane Decadence Batch 3 (image via Widow Jane)

Tasting Notes: Widow Jane Decadence Maple Syrup Barrel Finish

Vital Stats: 45.5% ABV, 91 proof. Blended straight bourbon whiskey aged 10 years and finished in Crown Maple syrup barrels. 750ml $89.99.

Appearance: Mahogany

Nose: Candied hazelnuts greet the nose first. The dram is warm, and I can already tell it is decadent. Although the maple is there, it’s not overpowering. There’s a touch of sarsaparilla and cinnamon. It is reminiscent of baklava and even a good apple turnover.

Palate: Maple and cinnamon mix with oatmeal. Added in are brown sugar and French vanilla. It’s warm with spice but not so much the ABV. The whiskey is decadent and reminds me of Christmas breakfast. Balanced with sweetness and baking spice, this makes a great nightcap.