Bookers Small Batch 2019 01E
One of the flagships of the Jim Beam distillery is Booker's Bourbon. Supposedly created by Booker Noe, Jim Beam only bottles 4 batches a year. "Uncut and unfiltered" means that we have the full power of a natural bourbon in our glass. Today it's Batch 2019-01E. This is the part of the first 2019 batch that was produced for the European market. The label promises 6 years and 3 months of maturation and almost 63% ABV.
Tasting Notes
Nose
The aroma load on the nose is a massive wall of caramel, vanilla, brown sugar - all in all an intensely sweet soup. As the nose evolves, softer notes of mint, a little apple and buttered popcorn emerge. The intense, spicy cloud of oak and a light resinous note hover over everything.
Palate
At first, the viscosity is overwhelming. Booker's presents its oiliness like a syrup. We find the sweetness of caramel, brown sugar and oak again. Dryness spreads over the palate. This is followed by slightly bitter orange, baked apple with vanilla sauce and a finely tuned spiciness of nuts and nutmeg.
Finish
This Kentucky Straight Bourbon is long lasting. Intense oak combines with a barely perceptible bitterness. At the same time, it is smooth and almost floral, with a hint of dark chocolate.
Thoughts
Marcel 85/100
If you're looking for a powerful bourbon with plenty of punch and character, Booker's Small Batch 2019-01E is a real heavyweight packed with sweet caramel power and spicy oak. Its intense viscosity demands your full attention but rewards you with drinking pleasure and a hint of dark chocolate – perfect for connoisseurs who enjoy their whisky bold and intense. However, its limited availability turns the drinking experience into a bit of a hunt, which slightly dampens the fun.
Sascha 90/100
Booker's Small Batch 2019-01E impresses with its clear structure and the balanced interplay of intense sweetness, oak spice, and delicate fruit notes, making the bourbon surprisingly well-rounded despite its nearly 63% ABV. The dense texture and long, nuanced finish with hints of bitter orange and dark chocolate showcase the craftsmanship behind it, though the limited availability reduces the practical value of this uncut Kentucky Straight Bourbon.
Value for Money: Good
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71/100Frequently Asked Questions
What does "Uncut and unfiltered" mean for Booker's Small Batch 2019-01E?
"Uncut and unfiltered" means that the bourbon has neither been diluted with water nor filtered. As a result, it retains its full alcohol strength of around 63% ABV and preserves all natural aromas and oils, leading to an intense flavor experience.
How does the 2019-01E batch differ from other Booker's releases?
The 2019-01E batch is part of the first 2019 batch, bottled specifically for the European market. It matured for about 6 years and 3 months and is distinguished by its particularly high alcohol strength and the characteristic combination of sweet and spicy aromas.
What is the best way to drink Booker's Small Batch 2019-01E to enjoy its flavors?
Due to its high alcohol strength, it is recommended to drink Booker's Small Batch 2019-01E neat or with just a few drops of water. This helps open up the aromas of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spices without losing its intense character.