It’s been quite some time since I have done a review. Work and play with a head cold has prevented a concentrated amount of time. But tonight the tasting stars aligned. This is one I have been hearing some good things about. On sale locally, a snagged a bottle and looked forward to tasting. Out of the gate, it’s fruity; grape jam, like Welch’s Grape Jam. Time is much needed to draw out the additional notes as it’s light in initial aromas. Peanut brittle, oranges, almond extract, vanilla work their way through. There a touch of red wine like a Cabernet or Merlot that keeps the grape notes ever present. The arrival is a fruity, sweet, spicy and rich in a dense, creamy, silky body. Plumbs, strawberries with butterscotch, creme brûlée. Ground Cinnamon provides a mild kick mingled with oak spice. Charcoal/barrel char is present and adds the flavor characteristics in a positive way. An almond or walnut nutty quality gently weaves itself within the fruity spiciness. Water is definitely not needed and expectedly dilutes the fullness of the flavors. A subtle woody dryness with the plumby, jammy and orange fruit carry over from the palate; a seamless segue to the finish. The cinnamon tingle stays for a long time and provides a warming sensation deep down. This is full of energy and vibrance. A fruit bowl with some sweetness and a pinch of spice. An extremely easy sipper. Though there is some weight behind this one at 47%, it feels like sipping at 43% or 40%. There is a noticeable Japanese style silkiness to the bourbon and the is a Booker’s baseline quality and flavoring is forefront. The fruitiness is not overblown and balanced, slightly to the side of fruit. Well blended. A enjoyable sweeter sipper that will not disappoint, especially at $30 a bottle. This experiment of East meets west (Suntory/Jim Beam) has proved itself with positive results. [$30][90/100][Tasted: 4/20/19]