Jura 15 Year Old Sherry Oak

Distillery Background and History

Jura Distillery, founded in 1810 and relaunched in the 1960s, is the only distillery on the Isle of Jura in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. With just one road and a few thousand residents, this remote island distillery crafts whiskies that reflect its serene maritime surroundings. It’s part of Whyte & Mackay (Alliance Global) and known for producing gentle, approachable single malts with island character through minimal peat influence. 

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

Jura’s production philosophy is built around balance and accessibility—combining soft island smoke, fruit sweetness, and sherry complexity. The 15‑year-old is crafted for elegance and drinkability, focusing on harmonious maturation and refined finishing rather than intense peat or heavy spice. 

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

Made from 100% barley malt distilled on Jura. Fermentation uses serene island yeast strains over long periods, and water is drawn from Loch a’Bhaile Mhargaidh—soft, mineral-rich water that contributes to the whisky’s silky mouthfeel and smooth texture. 

Distillation Process

Distilled in two wash stills (24,500 L) and two spirit stills (15,500 L), all copper and onsite-built. The tall stills and slow fermentation process emphasize fruity esters, gentle island smoke, and a medium-bodied smoothness—typical of Jura’s core style. 

Maturation & Cask Information

Aged for 15 years initially in American white oak ex‑bourbon barrels, then finished entirely in Oloroso sherry-seasoned American and European oak casks from Jerez, Spain. This sherry finish enhances fruit sweetness, spice, and depth while preserving Jura’s signature gentle character. Bottled at 42.8% ABV. 

Tasting Notes

Nose: Ripe stone fruits (plum, apricot, white peach), fig, honeyed cereal, lemon balm, and dark chocolate. 

Palate: Well-textured with salted toffee, roasted pineapple, sultana, forest fruit, citrus zest, and rich chocolate. 

Finish: Aromatic citrus, ripe plum, warming spice, and lingering dark chocolate sweetness. 

Food Pairing Suggestions

Excellent with fig tart, salted caramel desserts, dried fruit pastries, dark chocolate, honey-roasted nuts, or mild aged cheeses.

Serving Suggestions and Ideal Glassware

Best served neat or with a few drops of spring water in a Glencairn glass, at 15–18 °C. Gentle swirling enhances aromas; avoid ice to preserve the nuanced sherry sweetness and island softness.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. At 42.8% ABV, this whisky is fully mature—bottle aging offers minimal change. Best enjoyed within 1–2 years after opening to maintain freshness.

Grain Type & Mash Bill (if applicable)

Single malt Scotch whisky—100% malted barley; lightly peated; matured initially in ex-bourbon casks then finished in Oloroso sherry casks.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

42.8% ABV