In the world of premium American whiskey, few names resonate as profoundly as Booker’s Bourbon, an iconic label under the Jim Beam umbrella. This year, they've unveiled their third release of 2023, the Booker’s Batch 2023-03, lovingly dubbed the "Mighty Fine Batch." But, as with every fine bourbon, there's a story behind the name.
This particular batch pays tribute to a timeless phrase that Sixth Generation Beam Master Distiller, Booker Noe, would often use to express his approval - "mighty fine." Whether it was his signature bourbon or country ham, if Booker deemed it "mighty fine," you knew it was special. The tradition of sampling Booker's Bourbon with industry peers, followed by Booker's seal of approval, became legendary. It was a moment of celebration when he sipped and declared, "that's a damn good batch!"
In a poignant turn of events shortly before Booker's passing in 2004, his son, Seventh Generation Beam Master Distiller Fred Noe, found himself at the helm, tasked with selecting the barrels for a Booker’s Bourbon batch. The weight of legacy hung heavily over Fred, but after Booker sampled the selection, he offered a reassuring nod and remarked, "Mighty fine job, son." This heartfelt endorsement made the batch extra special for Fred, a moment etched in his memory forever.
So, what can connoisseurs expect from the "Mighty Fine Batch"? This exceptional bourbon is bottled at a robust 126.6 proof and has matured for seven years, one month, and ten days. The moment you pour a glass, you're greeted with a rich, enticing color, complemented by an inviting aroma featuring notes of vanilla and sweet brown sugar. But the real magic happens when you take that first sip. The flavor profile is full-bodied and comes alive even more when you add a drop of water, creating what they fondly refer to as a "Kentucky Hug" finish.
This batch is made up of barrels from seven production dates that were aged in six different warehouses. The breakdown of barrel storage for Booker's "Mighty Fine Batch" is as follows:
- 2% came from the 5th floor of 7-story warehouse Q
- 3% came from the 6th floor of 7-story warehouse Z
- 8% came from the 5th floor of 9-story warehouse G
- 10% came from the 6th floor of 7-story warehouse I
- 10% came from the 5th floor of 9-story warehouse H
- 12% came from the 5th floor of 9-story warehouse G
- 55% came from the 5th floor of 7-story warehouse 3
This splendid release of Booker’s Bourbon, the "Mighty Fine Batch," is now available across the nation. However, like all good things, it comes in limited quantities, so whiskey enthusiasts would do well to secure their own bottle. The suggested retail price for a 750 mL bottle is a very reasonable $89.99, making it an attractive addition to any discerning whiskey collection.
This isn't the first time in 2023 that Booker’s Bourbon has delighted its loyal following. Earlier in the year, they introduced the "Charlie's Batch" (2023-01) and the "Apprentice Batch" (2023-02), each with its unique character and story.
Booker’s Bourbon, known for its commitment to quality, always bottles its product at barrel strength. The selection process involves carefully choosing barrels from the center of the rackhouse to achieve the desired flavor profiles. This dedication to craft is a testament to the legacy of Booker Noe, a tradition proudly carried forward by Fred Noe.
As whiskey aficionados raise their glasses to the "Mighty Fine Batch," they not only savor the rich flavors within but also toast to the enduring legacy of Booker Noe and the art of bourbon-making that binds generations together. To learn more about this remarkable release, visit the official Booker’s Bourbon website.
About Booker’s Distillery
Booker's Bourbon, often referred to as Booker's, is a well-known brand of small-batch bourbon whiskey, and it's part of the Jim Beam Distillery's premium lineup. Named in honor of Booker Noe, a legendary figure in the world of bourbon and a former master distiller at Jim Beam, this bourbon is celebrated for its robust and uncut character.
Booker's Bourbon is known for being "straight from the barrel to the bottle," meaning it is bottled at cask strength without dilution. This gives it a high proof, typically well above the standard 80-100 proof range, resulting in a powerful and rich flavor profile. Each batch of Booker's is unique, with distinct flavors and characteristics.
The aging process of Booker's bourbon takes place in new charred oak barrels, which contributes to the whiskey's deep color and complex taste. The barrels are carefully selected and aged for a minimum of six years, but many batches are aged longer, enhancing the depth and richness of the final product.
One of the defining features of Booker's Bourbon is its authenticity and unapologetic intensity. It's often favored by seasoned bourbon drinkers who appreciate the full-bodied, unfiltered experience it offers. With each batch bearing a unique name and story, Booker's Bourbon has become a beloved and sought-after brand among bourbon enthusiasts. It's a testament to the legacy of Booker Noe and the commitment to producing exceptional, uncut, and unfiltered bourbon.
