I will be completely honest, there is a reason why there is only one review of Booker’s on this website, and honestly, that review was because I wanted to shout out the bar I visited while on a work trip. For some reason, this is about the only product from Jim Beam that just does not jive with my palate. Nonetheless, I have heard nothing but good things about this special release and how it was not your typical Booker’s, so I said sure, why not! Today’s review is from the James B. Beam Distilling Co. and is Booker’s The Reserves

From the Booker’s Reserves’ included card: Welcome to the very first batch of The Reserves: a celebration of my Granddaddy Booker’s legacy. I’m honored to be part of something than means so much to us at Beam, and to all of you who’ve enjoyed it over the decades. In many ways, The Reserves is the same bourbon you know and love. Always uncut, always unfiltered,. Just as Booker envisioned when he created his Small Batch Bourbon Collection and changed the world of whiskey for good.

With that said, let’s get our taste on!

• Distiller: Distilled and Bottled by James B. Beam Distilling Co.
• Mash Bill: Undisclosed
• Proof: 125.9
• Age: 8 Years, 2 Months, 12 Days (8-14 Year Blend)
• Year: 2024
• 2024 MSRP: $129
• 2024 National Average: $299
• Official Website

I have yet to see this bottle anywhere else in NoCo, which leads me to believe that it is quite limited to this area. So I owe another huge shout out to Parker at Fort Collins Warehouse Liquors for letting me know that this bottle and a few others were available to purchase; thank you greatly sir! Overall, this was the first Booker’s that I have tried that was not overly hot/spicy and not unbalanced. In turn, I have yet to try a Booker’s that I enjoy drinking, but thankfully this bottle has completely changed my mind! With that said, let’s get our taste on!

• Nose: Fruit Foward (Dark Cherry/Stonefruit), Vanilla Bean, Brown Sugar, Oak, and Cinnamon Hots Candy
• Palate: Dark Chocolate Covered Cherry, Vanilla Bean, Sugar Cookie, Baking Spice, Cinnamon, and Oak
• Finish: Medium to Long with Notes of Sweet Vanilla Oak, Leather, and Cinnamon
• My Rating: Drink It! (I have yet to try a Booker’s that I enjoy drinking… thankfully this bottle has completely changed my mind!)

Please remember, drinking bourbon is a personal adventure, so do not be afraid to drink it neat, with ice, or add some water. It’s your bourbon, you bought it, and you should enjoy it how you want to enjoy it!

Cheers! Prost! Sláinte!

Bourbon Bossman™