Booker's The Reserves Small Batch Bourbon

Overview
Booker's The Reserves Small Batch Bourbon is a limited release that showcases a blend of 8 to 14-year-old barrels, selected with care by Freddie Noe. This bourbon stands out with its rich complexity, offering a unique experience that moves beyond the typical Booker’s profile.

Specs at a glance

Good to know
This release serves as a remarkable turnaround for the Booker’s brand, previously criticized for less exciting offerings. The careful selection of older barrels adds depth and maturity, reminiscent of the celebrated Booker’s 30th Anniversary.

Tasting notes

• Nose: An inviting bouquet of seasoned oak, rich caramel, and toasted hazelnuts blends seamlessly with baking spices and a hint of caramelized pear.
• Palate: The mouthfeel is intense with layers of tannins, wood varnish, and cinnamon, balanced by vanilla cupcakes and a surprising hint of cherries. Each sip evolves, revealing nutty brittle and citrus zest.
• Finish: A long-lasting finish with drying oak, tobacco, and traces of coffee and caramel, leaving a satisfying warmth.

Notable details

• Production: Matures in #4 char barrels, uncut and non-chill filtered, ensuring robust flavor retention.
• Lineage: Part of the esteemed Booker’s line from the James B. Beam Distilling Co.
• Comparison: Often regarded as superior to standard Booker’s batches and competitive with other high-proof offerings such as Little Book.
• Availability: This release sold out rapidly, with secondary market prices exceeding $230, reflecting strong demand among collectors.

Closing
Booker's The Reserves embodies the best of what bourbon can be: rich, complex, and deeply rewarding for those willing to savor it.

Sources
[1] The Bourbon Culture – “Booker's The Reserves 2024 Quick Review”
[2] Whiskey In My Wedding Ring – “Booker’s Bourbon The Reserves 2024 Release”