Minimum aged 20 year old bourbons going into a blend? You may think this new release is from some heritage distillery, but you’d be wrong. Widow Jane has announced their oldest and most decadent bourbon yet with the introduction of Black Opal. This limited edition bourbon will be one that will be here today and likely gone tomorrow!
Full Press Release Below has been summarized and edited by Bourbon Lens and AI
Red Hook, Brooklyn, NY – September 30, 2024 – In a celebration of rarity and time-honored craft, Widow Jane Distillery has introduced Black Opal, the oldest whiskey in its history. A limited-edition release, Black Opal is a blend of 20-year-old bourbons finished in rare Mizunara oak casks. This coveted bourbon is available on strict allocation. It is the crown jewel of Widow Jane’s collection. It offers enthusiasts a one-of-a-kind tasting experience.
The Art of Blending Rare Bourbons
Head Distiller and Blender Sienna Jevremov meticulously selected over 100 barrels of bourbon. Each was aged for a minimum of 20 years. They were selected to create Black Opal. The aging process was completed with a final finish in casks made from Mizunara oak, a rare wood native to Japan’s Hokkaido island. These porous casks impart a unique flavor, adding layers of complexity to the already deep and mature bourbon.
Jevremov describes Black Opal as “a hefty tome of an epic tale,” revealing rich, complex flavors like burnt sugar, smokey incense, and herbal teas. The Mizunara finish elevates the blend, giving it an added dimension that binds together its sweetness and spice.
Tasting Notes:
- Aroma: Tahitian vanilla, frankincense smoke, dried apricot, rose hip
- Taste: Walnut, black strap molasses, crème brûlée, poached plum, burnt sage, brown butter
- Finish: Beeswax, ginger snap, chocolate ganache, nutmeg, caramelized sugar
A 20-Year Journey
Black Opal’s defining characteristics come from its 20-year aging process. The use of limestone-filtered water from the Rosendale Mines in upstate New York also contributes to its uniqueness. This mineral-rich water is integral to Widow Jane’s whiskey-making process. It enhances the bourbon’s mouthfeel and finish. It offers a lavish experience with each sip.
Widow Jane Black Opal by the Numbers:
- Aged: 20 years
- ABV: 49.5% (99 proof)
- SRP: $500 (750ml)
- Availability: October 2024 in select markets
- Allocation: 5,000 bottles (1,700 physical cases)
Packaging and Experience
The Black Opal bottle is presented in a bold, black steel box that reflects the industrial history of Red Hook. Inside, the elegant bottle is crafted with intricate details, including an internal jeweled texture that becomes visible as the bourbon is enjoyed. Each bottle comes with a limited-edition fine art print showcasing exclusive views of the Widow Jane Distillery.
Widow Jane recommends enjoying Black Opal neat, allowing the bourbon to breathe and open up, revealing its full spectrum of flavors.
About Widow Jane Distillery
Based in Red Hook, Brooklyn, Widow Jane Distillery is renowned for its artisanal approach to whiskey-making. Named after the historic Rosendale Mines, the distillery uses pure limestone-filtered water in its production process, contributing to the distinctive flavor of its whiskeys. With a focus on long-aged bourbons and a refusal to compromise quality through chill filtration, Widow Jane stands out as a leading whiskey producer.
To learn more, visit WidowJane.com or follow @widowjane on Instagram.
Listen to Bourbon Lens on your favorite podcast app or stream on Spotify. If you’d like to support Bourbon Lens, subscribe to our Patreon, sign up for our “Weekly Pour” Newsletter, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
If you like cocktails, subscribe to our second podcast, Cocktails with Friends. Cocktails with Friends is hosted by our good friend and partner, Bob Cutler.
Recent Bourbon Lens Coverage
- Pendleton 1910 Bourbon: New Whiskey, A Decade in the Making
- Southern Distilling Company Limited Edition Southern Star Bourbon Finished in Honey Barrels
- Laws Whiskey House Introduces Two New Limited Edition Finished Whiskeys
- Michter’s Announces Release of its Rare 20 Year Kentucky Bourbon After Hiatus
- No, Not Get Wasted – We Literally Mean “Get Basted” with Skrewball Whiskey This Thanksgiving
- Milam & Greene Whiskey New Cooper’s Hawk Single Barrel Bourbon
