Booker's Bourbon Batch 2024-01 "Springfield Batch"

I've had a complicated history with Booker's. While I enjoy a cask strength bourbon, past Booker's expressions I've sampled were too overpowering to be truly pleasurable. This might stem from my preference for drinking such a robust bourbon neat, but I can't bring myself to add water to a high-caliber bourbon. Thus, I'll stick to enjoying my whiskey and bourbon neat, from a Glencairn. The Springfield Batch's nose carries an ethanol note, though less intense than its 124.5 proof suggests. Beneath a distinct layer of honey roasted peanuts lies a rich sweetness of brown sugar and molasses. Notes of coconut and tart green apples balance the savory sweetness without overpowering it. The initial taste bursts with blackberry jam, cherries, and apple. The high proof creates a thick, viscous mouthfeel that complements the sweet and tart fruit flavors. Deeper into the taste, dark chocolate and tannic oak emerge, accompanied by baking spice. Given the spirit's intensity, I expected the spice to be more prominent. The finish is lengthy and satisfying, typical for Booker's. Tannic oak and baking spice remain dominant, while the dark chocolate becomes dry, leaving a powdery sensation. This bottling is a delightful departure for those accustomed to more assertive Booker's expressions. I was surprised to find numerous bottles readily available at my local Total Wine, easily obtainable at retail. I highly recommend acquiring a bottle; you won't be disappointed.

Color: Appealing Medium-Dark Amber Nose: For 124.5 proof, the aroma is surprisingly not very strong. Quite odd. Not even a slight burn in the nostrils. All I can confidently identify is "oak". I persisted in trying to discern more from the aroma — and wouldn't sip until I got something further... which eventually took the form of "leather". But enough of that. Time for a taste... Palate: (First serving consumed neat) Ahhhh... there's that immediate "spice" impact, which I anticipate from Booker's, on the very first sip. Significant oak char on the second sip — along with much more spice. Very minimal burn. The mouthfeel is just slightly syrupy, but generally light. More "creamy" than thick.

The aroma presents notes of aged warehouse, peanut shells, toffee, charred barrel, caramel, vanilla pudding, walnuts, black licorice, and subtle, sweet oak. The ethanol presence is noticeable but appropriate for the alcohol content. The flavor profile mirrors the aroma exactly, creating a harmonious experience where dessert-like sweetness meets equal parts bitter smoke, char, and wood. The extended finish reveals cinnamon, pepper, hints of rye spice, mint, and a subtle tang reminiscent of sourdough bread. The oak note from the palate evolves into a pleasingly tannic sensation. The texture is smooth and silky, a significant advantage. I had stopped purchasing these when the price exceeded $100, but this particular bottling was offered at a reduced price of $84.99, prompting me to buy it. I'm pleased with this decision, as the whiskey is exceptional. I might even consider paying full price for other available releases now.

Glass: Glencairn, rested for 15 minutes. Color: Medium-dark amber. Nose: Strong notes of vanilla, caramel, and toffee, with some cinnamon red-hots. Palate: Cinnamon, clove, baking spices, with a touch of mint towards the end. Finish: Long and warm, as expected from the proof. Splash: Some oak tannins emerge with a few drops of water. Overall: Rated 9/10. Booker's seems to be one of the most consistent, yet obtainable, limited releases. I would definitely buy again, especially at under MSRP.

A solid 3.75. The nose is unusual for this brand, lacking the typical nutty character. It's softer with more caramel notes than usual, almost bordering on fruity. The taste mirrors the nose with similar flavors. The finish is the weakest aspect; while some nice spice remains, it offers little warmth and fades quickly. I would describe this as a bottle that non-fans of this brand might really enjoy, and definitely worth buying at retail price.

Color: attractive amber hue with substantial legs. Nose: a fruity scent, but the specific fruit is hard to identify. It's a deep, dark aroma, reminiscent of something for a cold winter evening. Taste: warm spices on the back of the tongue are the first sensation. Some sweetness at the front, but it rapidly shifts to warm spices. Very minimal burn despite the high proof. Finish?: a long, warm finish. Water?: no water needed.