There is no easy way to put this other than Jim and I have a past, and in all honesty, it was not a good past. So when this new bottle was announced, I was a bit hesitant to pick it up for a review. Nonetheless, I decided maybe both of us had matured a bit since meeting over twenty years ago now, and that perhaps we could both behave ourselves now. Today’s review comes from the James B. Beam Distilling Co. and is their Jim Beam Winter Reserve.

Bottle Information

From the Jim Beam website: Jim Beam proudly presents Winter Reserve. Aged for 6 years and finished in two toasted barrels, this elevated bourbon offers a smooth flavor profile with notes of sweet vanilla, cinnamon spice, and a hint of clove for a warm finish that captures the essence of winter.

At 86 proof, Winter Reserve delivers a rich and satisfying sip that’s perfect for the season. Drink neat or add a seasonal twist to an Old Fashioned. With over 225 winter seasons behind us, we know a thing or two about crafting the perfect winter bourbon. 

• Distiller: Distilled and Bottled by James B. Beam Distilling Co.
• Mash Bill: 75% Corn, 13% Rye, and 12% Barley
• Proof: 86
• Age: 6
• Year: 2024
• MSRP: $24
• 2025 National Average: $29
• Official Website

There has been a lot of hype in the bourbon world about this bottle, and of course, I did not want to be left out. I believe this is sort of a limited release, not in production, but rather it will be limited to the time of year it is released. This bottle can be easily found in almost every store in NoCo and the state of Colorado. Overall, I found myself very skeptical about this release at first, but I was actually quite surprised. I know this is a cheap bottle, I know it is really low-proof compared to most of my reviews, and I know it might be a bit simple on the palate, but damn Jim Beam, I like where this is going! I mean call me crazy, but I do enjoy this bourbon. With that said, let’s get our taste on!

• Nose: Apple Juice, Baking Spice, Walnut, Vanilla, and Cinnamon
• Palate: Quite Sweet, Vanilla, Cinnamon, Baking Spice, and Maybe Marshmallow from the Toast
• Finish: Short and Sweet with Nuttiness and Spice
• My Rating: Mix It!/Drink It! (I mean call me crazy, but I really like this bourbon)

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®