Jura 18 Year Old

Jura Distillery, founded in 1810 and later revitalized in the 1960s, is the only whisky distillery on the Isle of Jura, a remote island in the Inner Hebrides. With fewer than 200 residents and more deer than people, Jura crafts whiskies shaped by maritime isolation and microclimate. It’s owned by Whyte & Mackay under Alliance Global and has gained a reputation for approachable island malts that balance fruit, light smoke, and accessible complexity.

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

Jura pursues a philosophy of balance, elegance, and easy drinkability. The 18 Year Old is positioned as the jewel of the Signature Series—steering into red wine-cask finishing for enhanced fruit character and structural balance. The goal: mature expression without heaviness, at a moderate proof.

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

Made from 100% malted barley sourced in Scotland, fermented with traditional island yeast strains over long durations. Pure water is drawn from Loch a’Bhaile Mhargaidh, lending softness and gentle minerality characteristic of Jura malts.

Distillation Process

Produced in just two wash stills (24,500 L) and two spirit stills (15,500 L), all tall copper stills built onsite. Designed for maximum reflux, the distillation yields a refined, medium-bodied spirit with subtle smoke and waxy texture.

Maturation & Cask Information

Matured for 18 years in ex‑bourbon American white oak barrels, then finished for several months in Premier Grand Cru Classé Bordeaux red wine barriques. This finish adds depth of red fruit, spice and soft tannin without overwhelming the spirit.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Rosewood-gold bouquet of cooked raspberries, strawberries, crème anglaise, cinnamon, toffee and baking spice. Presents a light musty-leather or herbal note initially.

Palate: Flavours of black forest fruit—brandied cherries, blackcurrant jam, dark chocolate, tropical fruit, cocoa, coffee and gentle sea salt. Waxy and soft on the mid-palate.

Finish: Medium length with tropical fruit and spice evolving into bitter chocolate, coffee, burnt sugar and briny oak tannin; a tiny waft of smoke lingers.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairs well with dark chocolate desserts, berry compote pastries, roasted nuts, mild blue cheese, or charcuterie featuring dried fruits and figs.

Serving Suggestions and Ideal Glassware

Serve neat or with a drop of spring water in a Glencairn or tulip glass at 15–18 °C. Swirl gently to release complexity. Avoid ice to preserve nuanced red-fruit and spice layers.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store upright in a stable, cool, dark environment. At 44% ABV, the 18-year-old is fully mature—bottle aging offers minimal transformation. Consume within 1–2 years after opening to maintain aromatic vibrancy.

Grain Type & Mash Bill (if applicable)

Single malt Scotch whisky — 100% malted barley; lightly peated; matured in ex‑bourbon and red wine finish casks.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

44% ABV