Split purchase with a friend, open 8 weeks.
Nose - Rich caramel and peanut brittle, strong oak and ethanol, baked apples, light baking spices and even some mint, light berries, hints of rye whiskey
Palate - Up front it's sweet, dark caramel and peanuts, berry compote, rye spices. The mid-palate and finish are overtaken by oak, peanut brittle, and ethanol. It is a medium-long finish with a bite that dries the mouth. When it fades, you want another one because each sip takes you on a journey.
This was my first ever Booker's purchase. I actually didn't buy it, my friend did and I gave him three whiskeys in the trade (Talisker Distiller's, ECBP A120, 1792 Single Barrel). I've seen Booker's go up in price in $10 increments over the decade, and I've always avoided it because of the cost. I understand the hype, this is really good stuff and much better than most Jim Beam offerings. But this falls flat when you compare it to its cousin, Knob Creek Single Barrel, which is $40 cheaper and can be found nearly twice its age as store picks. Even if you can't find a store pick, Knob Creek SiB is 2-3 years older than Booker's and I can't imagine the quality difference between the barrels justifies that price disparity. Additionally, you can buy what I consider the superior ECBPs for $30 less. I do think this is a very solid bourbon, but unless you live in a state where you can find this for $70 I suggest passing on this and use that money for something in the $60 range.
89.95
USD
per
Bottle