At a New Years gathering and someone said there was Bookers. I said, “Ooooh, what kind?” It’s this guy. The nose starts out sour and oaky. As it rises from the glass it becomes a drying aroma. It gives the impression of opening up an antique wooden chest. On the palate, there are herbs and spices up front, like basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. There is a juicy berry sweetness mid-palate, and lots of complexity at the back. Mouthwatering and incredibly astringent, this bourbon finishes burning all the way down, numbing and soothing. What I needed all 2017 but only got at its end. (Partially kidding.)