Booker's Bourbon Batch 2015-01 "Big Man, Small Batch"

[Batch #: C07-A-12 / 7yrs; 0mos / 65.3%ABV] - Sweetness of the corn, Apple Betty, cinnamon and leather are on the nose. The palate immediately discerns the oak tannins, drying the mouth. Definitely hot and spicy (think concentrated Red Hots), pushing the limits but never exceeding those bounds. The tongue is instantly anesthesized. A bitter, extremely dry oak finish with a fair amount of tongue burn. Like licking the dry stave of bourbon-soaked cask. As sweet as it is on the nose, it's deceivingly hot and dry. Imbibing at cask strength is definitely a daunting challenge. A healthy dose of water does not dimish the noses' sweetness, but decreases the cinnamon and leather. The sweet profile without the spice is dominate. Water makes it an easier dram to manage and definitely recommended. Without it, hair will grow in the wrong places. I am a "scotch guy" but this is a bottle I will make sure I always have available. [94/100]. [Tasted: 3/2/15 @ Black Eyed Sally's, Hartford] [Opened: 4/12/15].

Booker Noe created the Small Batch style of Boytbon with this one whiskey. So strong yet smooth. Lots of tannins. This edition of Bookers is the 25th anniversary of the bourbon but also the last Booker made him self before coming to sick to continue his work.

Definitely needs ice or water to break up that high ABV. Let it sit for a while, and the flavors really start to show. I liked this much better than even Pappy (blasphemy!!!). Can't beat the price...just above $55 . Only downside? Without ice...you'll be drunk by the 2nd glass (or end of the first one).

2 ice cubes, pour it, ignore it. Nurse a dark beer.