I don’t always drink beer……
As big a beer fan as I am, there are times, believe it or not, that I enjoy something besides beer. That something is normally an aged Rum, or Scotch. However, lately, I had been into trying bourbon. I had a few that I liked, but nothing that I loved. Well, then my In-Law’s toured the Jim Beam Distillery in Kentucky, and brought me back a sample pack of 4 single batch, highend bourbons. There was Knob Creek, Basil Hayden’s, Bakers, and Bookers.
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| Booker Noe |
Bookers is bottled straight from the barrel, it is unfiltered, and barrel aged from 7 to 9 years. It’s named for Booker Noe, Jim Beam’s great grandson, and master distiller from 1960 until the mid 90's. He first produced Bookers as holiday gifts for close friends and family, but it received such great feedback, he was talked into producing it for the public in 1988.
I had the first 3 in the pack, and liked them, nothing I loved, but I did enjoy them. Well, then the other night, I poured the Bookers into a scotch glass, and relaxed on our new back patio, to celebrate moving into our new house, with a good cigar, and a nice bourbon. I was saving the Bookers for last since that was the highest end bourbon of the pack, so I figured it would be the best, and man was I right!
It poured a deep rich amber color, and right away, I was a little excited.
Well, from the moment placed the glass to my nose, and took in the aroma of this bourbon, I was a fan! A very strong alcohol presence right up front, as you would expect, it is 130 proof after all. It wasn’t all you got though, there was a ton of caramel, and vanilla that was just enticing. I wasn’t surprised by the oaky notes coming out, but the hints of fruit I was not expecting. Man, I was looking forward to taking a sip!The first sip was more then I was expecting, and I was expecting a lot! A strong, fruit presence, with a smoky oak, and tobacco flavor that was just everywhere. So smooth, and pleasant, surprising for a 130 proof spirit. It's finish was strong, and lingering, with a pleasant, clean flavor.
I can honestly say that this is the best spirit I have had in a very long time, maybe ever. I am actually going out this weekend, and picking up a full bottle, which, at $60 a bottle, is not something I will be doing often, so I’ll be sure to take my time with it, and make ever sip count!
So, if you are looking for a break from beer, or just a great glass to have with a great cigar, I can recommend no greater bourbon then Bookers, Go get yourself some, you will be displeased!!!
