1990 The Whisky Cellar Private Cellars Selection Jura 30 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Jura commenced a massive re-racking programme in 1998 which continued through to 2016. It saw 30,000 mixed barrel types of pre-1995 stocks re-filled into casks of 'higher' quality. We can assume this refers to x-Bourbon, as of 1995, all of the new make spirit is exclusively put into first fill bourbon casks. Does that mean that this 1990 distillate could be less than great? Highly unlikely given it was handpicked and matured by a reputable independent. Known for its atypical, lighter island style with just a hint of smoke, extra-aged Juras can be superb, sometimes reminiscent of older Bowmores, and very different from official Juras (which is the whole point of these indie selections). While the nose here is finer and more restrained than expected, the palate captures a rare and stunning burst of nectarine and mango that's sought-after in these bottlings; It's complexed by hints of candle wax, wood smoke, white pepper, salted dark chocolate and distant sea breeze, in a superb integration of maritime and exotic fruit notes that's also completely mature. Closing fragile, ashy and fleeting, the finish suggests encroaching oak. This has been bottled at the right time. From an outturn of 163 bottles drawn from a single American oak hogshead. Very limited stocks. 46.4% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.