A couple of months ago, I fell in love with a bourbon filled to the brim with flavours of malva pudding and dark, sweet cherries. The Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon promised and delivered a delectable taste experience. At the same time, I also found the Jim Beam Double Oak bourbon whiskey in the shop and just had to try this as well.
The Jim Beam Double Oak bourbon whiskey is considerably more affordable than the Woodford Reserve variety. Making it an intriguing alternative to the Double Oaked bourbon. You can read all about the history and background of Jim Beam in some of the other blog posts.
The Double Oak bourbon starts as the classic Jim Beam White, ageing for four years in freshly charred, new American oak barrels as required. However, what sets it apart is its unique double-barreling process.
After the initial ageing period, the liquid is transferred to new, charred American oak barrels for a second round of ageing. This extra time in new charred barrels allows the bourbon to develop a deeper level of spiced oakiness and caramel, creating a distinct flavour profile.
Similar to the Woodford Reserve Double Oak and Maker’s 46 bourbon, Jim Beam Double Oak’s double-barreling process imparts a unique character to the spirit. It’s not just about the process but also the presentation.
Jim Beam Double Oak is released in the Beam premium packaging, featuring embossed glass and textured labelling. Some bottles even come with a branded glass, adding an extra touch to the experience. At around R 300, this bourbon offers an affordable yet premium option for bourbon enthusiasts.
The Jim Beam brand is part of the Beam Suntory stable and retail for around R 300.
Also Read: Slaughter House Whiskey
Jim Beam Double Oak Bourbon Whiskey Review
COUNTRY: USA
ABV: 43%
COLOUR: Deep golden copper
NOSE: Oak, vanilla bits of toffee sweetness, cinnamon. Not a very complex nose.
PALATE: Peppery oak, vanilla, brown sugar, toasted bread, hints of cherries and dry wood. Adding water softens the spiciness a bit, but does not bring the sweeter notes forward.
FINISH: The finish is overwhelmingly spicy and dry, leaving a lasting impression.
RATING: VERY GOOD
This bottle is a must-try if you’re a fan of bold, spicy bourbon. However, if you prefer something softer and sweeter, in that case, this bourbon might not be your best pick. The intense oak and spiciness from the extra maturation can overwhelm those seeking a milder taste.
Suppose you’re willing to splurge a bit more. In that case, the Woodford Reserve Double Oaked offers a delightful balance between soft sweetness and spicy oak, making it a superior choice for those looking for a more well-rounded bourbon experience.
For those curious about other offerings from Jim Beam, I’ve also explored the Devil’s Cut and the Jim Beam White Label bourbons in previous posts. Moreover, I’ve compared the Woodford Reserve Double Oaked and Jim Beam Double Oak side-by-side to uncover the nuances that set these two remarkable releases apart.
Whether you’re a bourbon connoisseur or just starting your bourbon journey, a world of flavour is waiting to be explored with these exceptional choices.
Also Read: Wild Turkey Rare Breed Bourbon
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