Whiskey enthusiasts, gather around, as I dive into a remarkable creation that embodies both craftsmanship and collaboration: the Whiskey JYPSI Explorer Release #1. This intriguing bourbon is the brainchild of a partnership between Eric Church, the acclaimed country music artist, and Raj Alva, a pioneering businessman with a deep passion for whiskey. Together, they set out to create a series of the world's finest whiskeys, reimagining traditional industry conventions.
Knowing they were not yet experts in whiskey making, Eric and Raj sought the help of experienced masters in the art and science of the spirit. After meetings with various master distillers and blenders, they chose whiskey maker Ari Sussman to bring their vision to life for the inaugural Explorer Series release.
The Explorer Series is based on the harmony of unparalleled six-year-aged whiskeys and unique finishing woods from around the globe. For this first release, the blend starts with two bourbons - a low rye distilled in Kentucky, selected for its sweetness, and a high rye Indiana bourbon, chosen for its spice. The combined mash bill of 66% corn, 30% rye, and 4% malted barley is then slowly reduced to 103 proof and finished using French oak from the famed Forest of Tronçais and American oak from the Appalachian Mountains - each varietal carefully selected to accentuate the sweetness and spice of the blend.
So, does it taste as good as it sounds? Let’s find out!
🥃103 Proof
🥃Aged 6 Years
🥃Mashbill: 66% Corn, 30% Rye, 4% Malted Barley
🥃Purchased for just under $60 at Liquorgate in Grifgin, GA (yes, below MSRP!)
🥃Tasted using a white wine flute (best I could find in a non-whiskey household)
Appearance
Upon pouring into the glass, I am greeted by a light caramel color that glimmers invitingly. The whiskey clings to the sides of the glass, and as I swirl it, the legs are slow to descend, gripping the glass with an elegance that hints at its rich character.
Nose
As the glass approaches my nose, the aromas unfold beautifully. A delightful bouquet of sweet caramel and soft leather greets me, intertwined with notes of vanilla and a subtle hint of nutmeg. There's a charming complexity here, too, as a whisper of stone fruit—perhaps a ripe plum—adds an intriguing layer, making the initial sniff a captivating experience.
Palate
Taking a sip reveals a wonderfully sweet and indulgent profile. The palate is enveloped in flavors reminiscent of caramel candy, balanced by rich vanilla and baking spices that dance on my tongue. The sweetness is further enhanced by the presence of sweet plum, verifying the nose and creating a harmonious blend that is both comforting and invigorating. As the sip progresses, an oaky dryness begins to emerge, signaling the approach of the finish.
Finish
The finish lingers medium-long, marked by an intense spice that keeps the senses engaged. The oak notes become more pronounced, adding a dry complexity that rounds out the experience, leaving me eager for another taste.
This whiskey is a deliciously complex creation that showcases the art of blending two different straight bourbons, elegantly finished with the unique influence of French and Appalachian oak staves. While Whiskey JYPSI may be a celebrity brand, it exudes a genuine passion for whiskey that resonates throughout every sip. The meticulous care taken in the blending and aging process is evident, and the beautiful bottle it comes in is a fitting tribute to the quality inside.
In a world where aesthetics often overshadow substance, JYPSI Explorer Release #1 stands out as a stunning example of how beauty can coexist with exceptional taste. With a solid 4.2 out of 5 ⭐️s, this whiskey is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the depths of flavor and craftsmanship in the bourbon world.
Keep sippin’, my friends! 🥃
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