Booker's Bourbon Batch 2019-02 "Shiny Barrel Batch"

On the nose, lots of vanilla and sweet spicyness. At 62%, this is hot and water really opens it up. There’s vanilla, caramel, spices, sweetness but not cloying, a slightly bitter finish. Complex and balanced, I like this but I don’t love it. 93

Got this as a wedding gift for my friend. We spent most of the night drinking it with friends and relatives Really good stuff!

This is the most disappointing bourbon I’ve tried this year. The nose hits you with a sharp ethanol with a hint of sweetness. And the ethanol persists on the palate. For the most part, the palate consists of pepper and leather, but the overwhelming yet quick heat takes any potential flavor with it. The finish, described by some as medium, was insanely quick. I got the sensation of pop rocks in my mouth as the alcohol singed my tastebuds. With 3-7 drops of water, the heat toned down a bit to reveal more leather and char. I do not get the sweetness or corn many say they do. Overall, 1/5

Freshly opened bottle. Wonderful first pour and impression. Excited to see what happens after it’s open for a week or two.

Love the lower proof in this. Super sweet still and subtle. Love!