Jefferson’s Very Small Batch Shelf Review

Shelf Review

Designed to give you all the quick hit information you need when you’re standing in front of your local liquor store’s whisky shelf.

Jefferson’s is a brand with high peaks and low valleys. At the highest echelon are their Presidential series of whiskies with age statements over 20 years. This Presidential series, as well as their numerous other limited editions have created a small but fervent group of supporters in the bourbon community. But at the other end of the Jefferson’s spectrum is this – their Very Small Batch expression that features sourced whiskies from undisclosed distilleries. At only 41.15% its one of the lowest proof whiskies I’ve had recently, but I am excited to jump in and find out if Jefferson can nail an entry level offering.

Age: Non-Age Stated

ABV: 41.15%

Cask: Charred New Oak

MSRP: $35

Distillery Name: Sourced for Jefferson’s

Review Date: 9/18/21

Nose: Tart apple slices, pink flowers, light, creamy and more perfumy than I expected. Slightly astringent with notes of musty corn and undercooked pastry.

Palate: Gala apples, light wood, confectionaries sugar and artificial lemon syrup. There’s a tough of light citrus and fruit notes that remind me of hand soap. Such a low proof that there isn’t much body here, with simple thin flavors.

Finish: Short finish with only the soften bite. More like a nibble. The light sweetness continues with a hint of overripe oranges and the powder used to make the drink Tang.  

Score: 83

 Would I buy again? When I first tried this, I thought it may be too nuanced for me. But as I kept sipping, I realized there just isn’t much there. There isn’t much to say about Jefferson’s Very Small Batch except that its entirely forgettable – maybe the most damning things you can say about a bourbon in this day in age. There isn’t much in the way of complexity, and a disappointing and thin mouthfeel due to its very low proof. This feels like a beginner’s bourbon at a not so beginner’s price. Save your money – there are better options for less.