The Jura in my view, hasn’t got that many eyes, nor does it sail the word of mouth as one would hope. I’m not sure if it’s the lack of advertising that is missing substantial outreach, the lack of effective product placement or awareness; or its availability barring the 10 YO expression!

For me, perhaps it was the lack lustre of the 10 that I felt was amiss. The oddly shaped bottle didn’t help either! But I think that’s something that needs getting used to. I say this because the shape seemed to appease this time, with the darker tones and the above average alcoholic bottling strength, pulling me closer.

The Jura “12” and the “The Bay 12” are not very different, but do deviate in their finishing; both are made primarily made from spirits aged in exbourbon American barrels but finished in casks that previously held Olorroso sherry casks in the case of the 12 and finished in barrels that preciously held Pedro Xiemenes wines for around 15 years for the latter. The “Bay” was plopped in as a tribute to the bay at Craighouse, in the island of Jura, where the distillery is nestled.

ABV : 44%

Eye : Tawny | Chill Filtered | Artificial Colouring

Nose : Deep caramel notes interleaved with dried fruits, raisins and milk chocolate. Lush plum cake, drizzled in rum and shards of milk chocolate. Woody, with strong notes of ginger, green pepper and some earthiness. Layers of sweetness with more dark red grapes, toffee and brown sugar.

Taste : Brown sugar with honey and caramel, a deep richness emanating from rum soaked christmas cake, topped with prunes and raisins. Subtle yet evident are nuances of cinnamon, ginger and pepper accompanied by hints of bay leaves.

Finish : Medium|Caramel, infused with dried fruits, char, and ginger with faint nuances of cardamom

Lush, heavy, and regal, this 12 YO expression is deep, oozing a wide spectrum of flavours originating from its time in the PX cask. The depth from the sweetness is well complimented by the spice, adding good dimension and complexity.  Borderline digestif, this one’s a bit sweet but still very palatable and satisfying; with plenty to savour over its well rounded and almost chewy mouthfeel.

Coming in at about AUD $125 for the 1 litre offering, I think it’s a steal! A lovely sipper that slowly cuddles you into comfort. At 44%, it doesn’t demand the need for water unless there’s a preference, but I feel that wee bit might just open up its flavours, adding pizzaz and breadth to an already lovely spirit! I can surely see myself grabbing another dram, and it’s safe to say The Bay 12 has made me a fan!

Slainte!