Get in the Spirit!

Widow Jane Decadence Straight Bourbon 10-Year-Old

By Al Davis

Al Davis

Shalom achim. Last month I was pleased to present a higher end Scotch that, while delicious, might not be priced within everyone’s liquor budget. This time we’re looking at a marvelous bourbon from — believe it or not — Brooklyn, N.Y. I’m talking about Widow Jane Decadence Straight Bourbon, which is an award-winning classic blend of Widow Jane Bourbons, finished in maple syrup barrels from New York’s artisanal Crown Maple Co.

Okay, tukhes aoyfn tish (telling the whole truth), this potable is a blend of top-tier bourbons sourced from Kentucky, Tennessee and Indiana. That said, it’s proofed with limestone mineral water from New York’s Rosendale Mines. Yes, the mineral water makes a difference, both to flavor and texture.

Decadence hits the palate with a mildly sweet mouthful, balanced by a touch of oak. It has been described as having a smooth, creamy finish that lingers. If you’re not the type to throw the bourbon back, but really allow yourself to savor the flavor, the description fits. The maple sweetness is pleasing without overwhelming the traditional bourbon. I’m not a huge fan of sweet bourbons (though I confess to an occasional dalliance with Maker’s Mark Cask Strength), but this one is an exception. The sweetness added by additional aging in maple syrup barrels is perfect without taking away from the flavors one craves in a bourbon. While I prefer this bourbon neat, because it can be classified as a dessert bourbon, one can enjoy it on the rocks, and I have done so.

This is a 91 Proof potable that I purchased for less than a C-note at Wine Country. Because there are no wine casks involved, this bourbon can be used for Kiddush with a “she-ha-kol” bracha. We’ll be back next month with a treat for Pesach. In the interim, HaDvar would love to have you share one or two favorites of your own. Please send your write-ups to Al Davis: .

L’Chaim!

Al Davis is a HaD’Var contributing writer.