Joseph Magnus Bourbon Cognac Cask

Overview
Joseph Magnus Bourbon, a revival of a Prohibition-era brand, is a straight bourbon uniquely finished in Oloroso sherry, Pedro Ximénez sherry, and Cognac casks. This innovative triple cask aging process aims to meld historical techniques with modern whiskey-making, resulting in a whiskey that balances rich sweetness and subtle dryness.

Specs at a glance

Good to know
The brand was originally founded in 1892 by Joseph A. Magnus and has been revitalized since 2015 by his great-grandson, breathing life into an old family tradition. This bourbon aims to replicate the original recipe as closely as possible, giving it a nostalgic sheen for collectors.

Tasting notes

• Nose: Offers inviting aromas of orange rind honey, ripe plums, and dark fruits, with a hint of buttercream cake and light leather. A subtle ethanol kick adds a touch of intrigue.
• Palate: Features bold flavors of cherry pie filling, vanilla brown sugar, and oak leather, creating a harmonious blend of sweetness and depth.
• Finish: Presents a medley of flavors including green peppercorn, tobacco leaf, and dry oak, though some find the finish to be slightly less memorable than the palate suggests.

Notable details

• Production: Triple cask finished bourbon that is non-chill filtered, showcasing the complexities of each barrel used in the aging process.
• Lineage: The revival of the Joseph Magnus brand taps into rich family history and traditional blending methods, setting it apart in the bourbon landscape.
• Comparison: While it has been likened to the flavors found in Angel’s Envy Rye, it stands out for its nuanced profile rather than bold extremes.
• Availability: Typically found through specialty retailers, it commands a price reflective of its labor-intensive production at around $80.

Serving suggestions

• Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water to open up its complex flavors.

“The triple finishing adds subtle layers and depth, distinguishing it from typical barrel-finished whiskeys.” – Breaking Bourbon

Closing
Joseph Magnus Bourbon invites you to explore a harmonious blend of history and innovation, perfect for both seasoned whiskey enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike.

Sources
[1] Breaking Bourbon – “Joseph Magnus Bourbon Review”, Date