Booker's Bourbon Batch 2018-03 "Kentucky Chew"

I had intended to sample this for some time but only recently decided to purchase the bottle. It definitely has a robust flavor profile, to put it mildly! The aroma is pleasantly sweet, aligning with my usual preferences. While I wouldn't want my living space to smell like it, I don't mind the scent of corn and leather being the last impression before tasting. The sweetness in this bottle is subtle yet very satisfying. This particular bottling is very high in alcohol content (reportedly one of, if not the, highest proof they offer), and drinking it neat will make you feel every bit of it. I diluted mine with water on the second tasting, bringing it down to approximately 90-100 proof. The flavors remain distinct, but there's a persistent burn, especially noticeable in the back of the throat. Nevertheless, the finish is clean, and I find the overall flavor profile (bittersweet, lingering on the tip and center of my tongue) quite appealing. Since I can acquire my preferred choice for a slightly lower cost, I'm uncertain about purchasing another bottle soon – but I would certainly accept it if offered. Tasted neat and diluted to roughly 95 proof.

Initial thoughts, a recently opened bottle, no water added: Powerful scents of salted caramel, peanuts, Red Hots, and acetone on the nose, which transfer to the palate, with the Red Hot notes dominating the middle and end. The mouthfeel starts thick and creamy, but quickly becomes tingly and spicy. It's just shy of being too harsh, finishing with an oaky diet cola flavor. As expected, the finish is intensely hot and long, but enjoyable. The initial pours from the bottle were quite heavy on the peanut notes, but air has allowed the caramel and spice notes to become more prominent. It's a little too savory for my preference, but it's a very well-crafted and captivating drink. It accepts water well, becoming very approachable around a 1:6 ratio. Update: with about one-third of the bottle left, the cherry cola flavors have become much clearer, and the bourbon shows a nice balance of sweet and tart. This expression truly improves with time.

Sampled blind at a friend's residence. Glassware: Glencairn, allowed to rest for 15 minutes. Appearance: Medium-dark amber. Aroma: Caramel, vanilla, raisins. Palate: Clove, cinnamon, oak. Finish: Extended and very warm. With Water: The clove becomes particularly prominent with just a few drops of water. Overall Assessment: 8/10 - Classic bourbon characteristics with a long finish. The alcohol strength is only noticeable at the very end, and the high rye content is apparent throughout. This would hold up well with ice or in a cocktail, and I likely won't encounter it again.

A blind sample was provided by a friend. Glassware: Glencairn, allowed to sit for 15 minutes. Appearance: Medium-dark amber hue. Smell: Notes of caramel, cherries, and other dark fruits. Taste: Evokes cinnamon red hots. Aftertaste: Warmth that lasts and has a substantial feel. Addition of liquid: A small amount of water softens the cinnamon heat, revealing a dry oak character. General impression: 9.5/10 - This embodies traditional bourbon; I suspect it has seen considerable time aging in oak. It's very close to flawless, especially with a bit of water added.

Revision 3/29/20 - tried again side-by-side with Stagg Jr batch 12. Stagg Jr is mostly high notes. This one coated my palate with richness and better harmony. Truly enjoyable. Increased rating to 4.25. Original review - This review is quite accurate. It requires a lot to draw out the sweetness, whether adding ice or water. The longer it rests on the tongue, the sweeter the profile becomes. Beyond that, it's spicy and dark.

This is potent! I absolutely needed ice to tame this one. It's quite enjoyable, though it doesn't go down smoothly. Smells of alcohol, leather, and vanilla. Spice is present from start to finish. I detect notes of allspice and cinnamon. The finish is lengthy and hot. Watch out, that finish might sting your nose! It's a real sinus clearer.