Editor’s Note: This whiskey was provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. 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 in this review our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.
In October 2022, Brooklyn-based distillery Widow Jane released The Vaults 2022. This release is their fourth iteration of a seasonally-released series of its “oldest and rarest” whiskeys. The Vaults 2022 is a blend of bourbons from 14 to 19 years old that were selected by master distiller Lisa Wicker.
Each release of The Vaults has utilized different finishing wood from different regions. The Vaults 2022 was finished in Missouri Ozark oak casks and the wood had been air-seasoned for three years.
Widow Jane Distillery is named after one of the mines in Rosendale, New York, where some of the natural cement used in New York City landmarks such as the Brooklyn Bridge was sourced. Today, these mines are reserves of limestone-filtered water that the distillery uses to proof their chill-filtered whiskey.
The Vaults series is always small-batch and limited edition. A total of 2000 cases are being released in total.
“The Vaults 2022 represents the craftsmanship of the distillers before me,” stated Wicker, “the warehouse men and women, the farmers and the truck drivers and the Widow Jane team. I have the privilege of finishing and blending exquisite whiskey.”
Exquisite is certainly the apt word here. Wicker has created a product that any distiller or distillery would be proud to produce. It’s a pity that the release is so limited, but that makes it all the more special.
Tasting Notes: Widow Jane The Vaults 2022
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Vital Stats: 49.5% ABV, 14 years old. Prices vary, but it is generally listed around $300-$350.
Appearance: The whiskey is a dark, tea-colored brown with golden hues.
Nose: Tart cherry, vanilla, and baking spice make up the first impressions. The nose then deepens in complexity to show off root beer and light leather.
Palate: Vanilla and root beer carry through to the palate which are joined by brown sugar and lemon. The mouthfeel is smooth, velvety, and luxurious. Lingering vanilla, cinnamon, and cocoa powder play on the tongue in the finish, accompanied by grippy tannins.
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