What other bourbon travels around the world at sea?
On May 18th, Jefferson’s Bourbon unveiled their latest drink expression, Jefferson’s Aged At Sea Ocean Rye. The event was held at Island Oyster at Governor’s Island and guests were able to sample the new expression while sampling some delicious oysters as an accompaniment. What is exciting about this new expression of whiskey is the process in which it is made. This double-barreled rye whiskey is put into barrels and sent off to sea. The whiskey then travels around the world and creates a rich and unique caramelization that comes from the unique sea aging process. If you are a whiskey lover, Jefferson’s Aged At Sea Ocean Rye is definitely something to try out. With notes of caramel, maple, vanilla, and toffee, this expression could be deemed the “caramel popcorn bourbon” with how it tastes.
At the event, guests could also try some whiskey cocktails made with the Aged At Sea Ocean Rye. Our favorite drink was called the Seaworthy which was made with Jefferson’s Ocean Rye, dry vermouth, lemon juice, Liber and Co. grenadine, orange bitters, and a splash of soda. This drink was not only refreshing and bright but had hints of sweetness from the grenadine which eventually finished with notes of spice and salt from the Ocean Rye.
Guests could also sample a variety of oysters harvested from all over. The oysters paired beautifully with the Ocean Rye, both playing off of each other’s saltiness. And towards the end of the event, there was a fun oyster shucking contest. The contestants included Grand Central Oyster Bar, Crew, and Maison Premiere. There were two rounds of shucking, one to see which person could shuck 10 oysters the quickest and the second being how many oysters could be shucked in a minute. Guests were given cards in the beginning on which team to root for which made it even more exciting. Once the shucking contest was done, guests could try some of the fresh oysters that were shucked.
The night ended with guests celebrating the newly released whiskey with a grand cheers. Our lasting impression of Jefferson’s Aged At Sea Ocean Rye is that this is truly a one-of-a-kind whiskey. The whiskey itself goes down smooth and has beautiful notes of toffee, vanilla, tobacco, and a myriad of baking spices on the finish. You could use this new expression for any whiskey cocktail that you are making as well as serving is neat to sip and savor. You can find more information about Jefferson’s aged At Sea Ocean Rye here.