Jameson vs Famous Grouse
Jameson vs Famous Grouse – which is the best? You’re probably wondering which is the better choice between these two renowned whiskey brands. Not to worry, we’ll go over that as we compare the two popular whiskey brands side-by-side.
Jameson vs Famous Grouse: History
Jameson is popularly called the “Irish king of whiskey”. Although founder John Jameson was a Scottish lawyer, Jameson is produced in Ireland. Operating since 1780, the brand has been creating casks of the world’s favourite amber spirit for over 200 years. The motto of the company and family is “Sine Metu”, meaning “Without Fear” – a watchword that embodies the true spirit of Jameson’s premium, triple-distilled Irish whiskeys.
Famously known as the number one Scotch in Scotland for over 40 years and named after the Red Grouse, Scotland’s most popular game bird, the Famous Grouse is a delicious blend of the finest single malts, such as Macallan and Highland Park, and other exceptional grain whiskies. Founded in 1896 by Matthew Gloag when it was first known as “The Grouse”, this blended Scotch whiskey is renowned for its commitment to quality and meticulous sherry cask aging.
Jameson vs Famous Grouse: Taste
Jameson is made from blending two different whiskeys - the best pot still whiskey, made from both malted and unmalted barley, and fine grain whiskey. Distinguished from American and Scottish whiskies which are only distilled twice, Jameson whiskeys have been distilled three times to eliminate impurities and ensure optimum smoothness. The whiskey is then aged for at least 4 years in casks (previously used to age bourbon and sherry) that come from both Spain and the USA, giving the whiskey its highly distinct toasted wood and sweet sherry flavour.
On the nose, Jameson fascinates with light, spicy and sweet notes. On the palate, it’s woody, nutty with vanilla and sweet sherry undertones, while the finish thrills with lightly peaty, toasted oak notes. Perfect for sipping neat or used in shots, Jameson is also spectacular in cocktails.
Famous Grouse is a superbly balanced, easy-to-drink dram perfect with soda or in whiskey cocktails. On the nose, there are abundant aromas of candied fruits, buttery shortbread, and citrus peel, with flavours of sweet dried fruits, creamy malt, soft spices of cinnamon, and ginger on the palate. The Famous Grouse also offers an enticing touch of oak from the handcrafted barrels, providing its distinctively smooth, buttery taste and well-balanced finish.
Jameson vs Famous Grouse: Price
Comparing prices, it’s safe to say that Jameson goes the higher way. For example, Jameson Original Irish Whiskey goes for N6,600 per 70cl volume, while a 20cl bottle of Jameson Original is N2,250, and Jameson Black Barrel 70cl is N9,860.
For Famous Grouse whiskey, a 75cl bottle is priced at N3,650, the 50cl bottle goes for N3,400, and a smaller 35cl bottle is sold at N1,860.
Jameson vs Famous Grouse: Which is Better?
Your ultimate choice between Jameson and Famous Grouse will be a matter of personal preference and budget.
The major difference between both whiskeys is that, while Jameson is a triple-distilled whiskey produced in Ireland, the Famous Grouse is a Scotch – sourced and manufactured in Scotland. Jameson offers a smoother taste experience and lighter oak undertone, but if you desire a delightful potpourri of creamy, malty flavours in an affordable Scotch, you’ll love the taste of Famous Grouse on your palate!
