Are you a fan of Irish whiskey but not sure which brand to choose? Proper No. Twelve and Jameson are two of the most popular Irish whiskey brands on the market today. Conor McGregor’s Proper No. Twelve has been making waves since its release in 2018, while Jameson has been a household name for over 200 years.
Both Proper No. Twelve and Jameson are blended Irish whiskeys, but they have their differences. If you’re trying to decide between Proper No. Twelve and Jameson, you’ll want to consider factors such as taste, price, and overall quality. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at both brands to help you make an informed decision. We’ll explore the key differences between Proper No. Twelve and Jameson, including their history, how they’re made, and their flavor profiles. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of which Irish whiskey is right for you.
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History of Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey and Jameson Irish Whiskey
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Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey’s History
Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey is a relatively new brand in the Irish whiskey market, having been founded in November 2018 by UFC superstar Conor McGregor. The name “Proper No. Twelve” is a reference to his hometown postcode of Dublin 12, and the whiskey is produced at the Old Bushmills Distillery in Northern Ireland. The brand has quickly gained popularity, in part due to McGregor’s celebrity status and marketing efforts.
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Jameson Irish Whiskey’s History
Jameson Irish Whiskey, on the other hand, has a much longer history. The John Jameson and Sons Irish Whiskey Company was founded in 1780 by John Jameson, a Scottish businessman who moved to Ireland to manage a distillery in Dublin. Jameson’s whiskey quickly gained a reputation for its quality, and the company expanded rapidly throughout the 19th century.
In the early 20th century, however, the Irish War of Independence and subsequent trade restrictions with the UK caused the Irish whiskey industry to decline. Jameson’s sales suffered, and the company eventually merged with two other Irish whiskey brands to form the Irish Distillers Group in 1966. Today, Jameson is one of the best-selling Irish whiskey brands in the world.
Production Process
Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey Production Process
Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey is made by the Old Bushmills Distillery in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The production process starts with the selection of the finest barley and grain. The barley is germinated and then dried in kilns, which gives it a distinctive smoky flavor.
After the barley is dried, it is ground into a fine powder and mixed with hot water to create a mash. The mash is then transferred to large vats where yeast is added to start the fermentation process. This process takes about three days and results in a liquid called wash, which has an alcohol content of around 8%.
The wash is then distilled three times to create a clear, high-proof spirit. The first distillation takes place in a wash still, the second in a low wine still, and the third in a spirit still. The spirit is then aged in oak barrels for at least three years, which gives it its signature smoothness and complexity.
Jameson Irish Whiskey Production Process
Jameson Irish Whiskey is made at the Midleton Distillery in County Cork, Ireland. The production process starts with the selection of the finest barley, maize, and pure Irish water. The barley is germinated and dried in kilns, which gives it a distinctive flavor.
After the barley is dried, it is ground into a fine powder and mixed with hot water to create a mash. The mash is then transferred to large vats where yeast is added to start the fermentation process. This process takes about three days and results in a liquid called wash, which has an alcohol content of around 8%.
The wash is then distilled three times to create a clear, high-proof spirit. The first distillation takes place in a wash still, the second in a low wine still, and the third in a spirit still. The spirit is then aged in oak barrels for at least three years, which gives it its signature smoothness and complexity.
Taste Comparison
When it comes to taste, Proper No. Twelve and Jameson have distinct differences that set them apart. Proper No. Twelve has a sweeter taste profile with notes of ripe fruit, caramel, and oak spice while Jameson has a smoother and more balanced taste with a hint of vanilla, toasted wood, and a subtle sweetness.
If you prefer a sweeter and fruitier taste, then Proper No. Twelve might be the whiskey for you. It has a more pronounced caramel and fruit flavor, with a slight spiciness that adds depth to the taste. The finish is also quite pleasant, with a subtle orange and oak aftertaste.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional and balanced taste, then Jameson might be the better option. It has a smoother and more refined taste, with a subtle sweetness that is not overpowering. The toasted wood flavor adds depth to the taste, and the vanilla notes make it a pleasant sipping whiskey.
Price Comparison
When it comes to choosing between Proper No. Twelve and Jameson Irish Whiskey, price is a factor that many people consider. Here’s a breakdown of the price comparison between the two whiskeys:
- A 750ml bottle of Proper No. Twelve costs around $34. A full handle, which is 1.75L, is approximately $59.99.
- A 750ml bottle of Jameson costs around $35. A full handle is around $40.
As you can see, Proper No. Twelve is slightly cheaper than Jameson. However, the price difference is not significant, and it shouldn’t be the only factor you consider when making your decision.
It’s worth noting that both Proper No. Twelve and Jameson are reasonably priced compared to other Irish whiskeys on the market. They both offer excellent value for money and are accessible to a wide range of consumers.
When it comes to buying Irish whiskey, it’s always a good idea to shop around and compare prices. You may be able to find discounts or special offers that can save you money on your purchase. Whether you opt for Proper No. Twelve or Jameson, you can be sure that you’re getting a quality Irish whiskey at a reasonable price.
Conclusion
So, which Irish whiskey should you choose between Proper No. Twelve and Jameson? It really depends on your personal taste and preferences.
If you prefer a sweeter and smoother whiskey, then Proper No. Twelve might be the one for you. Its attractive label and affordable price point also make it an appealing option for those on a budget.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more complex and nuanced whiskey with a longer finish, then Jameson might be the better choice. Its long-standing reputation and wide availability also make it a reliable option for those who want a classic Irish whiskey.
Ultimately, both Proper No. Twelve and Jameson have their own unique qualities and characteristics that make them worth trying. Whether you prefer one over the other, or enjoy both, it’s up to you to decide which one suits your taste buds the best.
So go ahead and grab a bottle of Proper No. Twelve or Jameson, pour yourself a glass, and enjoy the taste of Ireland in every sip. Sláinte!
