This past year saw four delicious batches of Booker’s Bourbon.  The last of those batches, 2018-04, is nicknamed “Kitchen Table.”  The name pays homage to one of the late Booker Noe’s favorite places, where batches of Booker’s namesake bourbon were selected.

“Kitchen Table” is 6 years, 8 months, and 7 days old, bottled uncut and unfiltered at 128 proof.  This batch features whiskey from three different production dates with barrels selected from three different warehouses, broken down as follows:

• 7% from warehouse E, 4th floor
• 14% from warehouse E, 5th floor
• 4% from warehouse E, 6th floor
• 24% from warehouse J, 5th floor
• 44% from warehouse J, 6th floor
• 7% from warehouse D, 6th floor

The nose is classic Booker’s, prominently showcasing vanilla with hints of toasted oak, brown sugar, and honey-roasted peanuts.  The palate closely follows the nose, with peanut brittle, vanilla, and dark fruits.  There’s a nice amount of oak on the back palate, as well some herbs.  Interestingly,  the palate isn’t as sweet as the nose would suggest.  The long finish features hints of cocoa, roasted nuts, and caramel.

All in all, “Kitchen Table” is another solid batch of Booker’s.  It is heavy with that Jim Beam nutty note, which is what differentiates it from other recent batches.  Otherwise, it’s pretty well balanced and quite an enjoyable dram.  Booker’s remains a high quality, cask strength whiskey.  Buy with confidence.  8.5/10

bookersbourbon.com

Thanks to Jim Beam for the sample.  As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.