Sitting at the bar waiting for the Alabama/Clemson game to start, after a nice bbq meal (Go Tigers). The banana notes are the first notes on the nose. They overpower all, initially. As you wait, they do lessen and other bourbon traits make their way: corn sweetness, vanilla, oak and cinnamon. This initial Bookers blast (neat) immediately anethestizes the tongue and dulls the senses. The second wave, as you are better prepared, allows you to discern the brown sugar sweetness. At this point, water is your friend. Add some ice gradually and let it open. This beast need taming. As it starts to settle, the brown sugar sweetness and oakey dryness play off each other, starting sweet then turning dry. The oak dominates and as it starts the finish, the palate is left oakey dry and Red Hot cinnamon spicy. A nice treat and fun ride. As far as all the two Booker batches I have experienced, to me, they are all very similar. A more refined palate may be able to discern the differences. But, in general, if you like bourbon, you can't go wrong with Bookers. [93/100] [Tasted: Black Eyed Sally's, Hartford, CT; 1/11/16]