Jim Beam, the world’s top-selling bourbon, has just dropped a gem that’s got whiskey lovers buzzing. Lineage Batch #2, a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, is a special release crafted by the legendary father-son duo, Fred Noe and Freddie Noe. This isn’t just another bottle on the shelf—it’s a rare collaboration between the seventh and eighth generations of the Beam family, blending tradition with a fresh twist. For anyone who appreciates a good bourbon, this one’s worth the trip to Kentucky.
What makes Lineage Batch #2 stand out is its exclusivity. You can’t grab this bottle at your local liquor store or online. It’s only available at the James B. Beam Distilling Co. campus in Clermont, Kentucky, about 25 miles south of Louisville. This distillery-only release adds a layer of allure for collectors and bourbon enthusiasts who enjoy the chase for something unique. Priced at $250 for a 700mL bottle, it’s a premium offering, but the story behind it and the quality inside make it a worthy investment for those who savor the finer things.
Image credit: Jim Beam
This bourbon is a true testament to the Beam family’s legacy, which stretches back to 1795 when Jacob Beam sold his first barrel of whiskey. Fred Noe, the seventh-generation master distiller, has been at the helm since 2007, continuing the work of his father, Booker Noe, who shook up the bourbon world with his small-batch innovations. Now, Freddie Noe, who joined the family business in 2013, is stepping into the spotlight. Lineage Batch #2 is the first bourbon in Jim Beam’s portfolio to carry Freddie’s name alongside his father’s, marking a symbolic passing of the torch. It’s a blend of the past and the future, crafted by two men who live and breathe bourbon.
Aged for 15 years in charred white oak barrels at the Booker Noe Plant in Boston, Kentucky, with some barrels from the Clermont site, Lineage Batch #2 is a step above most Jim Beam expressions, which typically age for four to seven years. The extended aging, combined with the careful selection of barrels by Fred and Freddie, gives this bourbon a depth and complexity that’s rare for the brand. Bottled at a robust 55.5% ABV (111 proof), it delivers a bold yet balanced experience that’s perfect for sipping neat or with a splash of water to open up its flavors.
The whiskey itself is a feast for the senses. Its rich mahogany color catches the eye, hinting at the depth within. On the nose, it offers creamy toffee, warm vanilla, and seasoned oak, with a touch of spice rounding out the aroma. When it hits the palate, expect a smooth, full-bodied mouthfeel—something Jim Beam is known for—with flavors of leather and charred oak mingling with the sweet richness of crème brûlée. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving notes of matured oak that linger like a warm Kentucky evening. For those who love dissecting a whiskey’s profile, this one’s got layers that keep you coming back for another sip.
What sets Lineage Batch #2 apart from its predecessor, Batch #1, is its unique aging process. While Batch #1, released in 2021, was aged entirely in Warehouse K at Clermont and was exclusive to travel retail, Batch #2 pulls from barrels aged between 15 and 20 years, mostly at the Booker Noe Plant. The choice of aging locations, likely on lower floors to prevent the bourbon from becoming too oaky, adds a distinct character. This careful craftsmanship ensures the whiskey doesn’t overwhelm with oak but instead strikes a balance that’s both bold and refined.
For bourbon fans, the chance to own a piece of Beam family history is a big draw. The collaboration between Fred and Freddie isn’t just about making great whiskey—it’s about carrying forward a tradition that’s been alive for over 225 years. Freddie’s growing role in the distillery signals exciting things to come, and Lineage Batch #2 is a milestone in that journey. It’s not just a drink; it’s a story in a bottle, one that connects generations of distillers and the people who enjoy their craft.
Visiting the James B. Beam Distilling Co. campus is part of the experience. The distillery offers tours, tastings, and a retail shop where you can snag this exclusive bottle. The Clermont campus is steeped in history, with rickhouses and facilities that have been producing bourbon for decades. It’s a pilgrimage for whiskey lovers, offering a chance to walk the grounds where the Beam family has perfected their craft since the late 18th century. Pair the visit with a stop at the distillery’s restaurant for some Kentucky-inspired food and cocktails, and you’ve got a day well spent.
At $250, Lineage Batch #2 isn’t cheap, but for collectors, it’s a no-brainer. The limited availability and the historic collaboration make it a bottle that’ll stand out in any collection. Compared to other premium bourbons, the price reflects its rarity and the care put into its creation. Plus, the 15-year age statement puts it in elite company, as most bourbons don’t reach that level of maturity. Whether you’re sipping it slowly or displaying it proudly, this bourbon delivers on both taste and legacy.
For those who can’t make the trip to Clermont, the secondary market might offer a few bottles of Batch #1, but Batch #2 is strictly a distillery exclusive for now. That scarcity only adds to its appeal. If you’re planning a Kentucky bourbon trail adventure, make sure the James B. Beam Distilling Co. is on your list. Lineage Batch #2 is more than just a bourbon—it’s a piece of American whiskey history, crafted by a family that’s been doing it better than anyone for over two centuries.
