Jim Beam Winter Reserve

🌞 Sunshine, Seasons & Sippin’ with Jim Beam ❄️ 🎩 Topsail Island Edition 🎩 Oh my, do I love when the seasons change! There’s something magical about the subtle shift in the air—the way the ocean breeze leans just a bit cooler in the morning, or how a bourbon tastes just a little different under a summer sun or a winter moon. Right now, I’m soaking in all that summertime goodness from the sandy shores of Topsail Island, North Carolina, and what better companion than a little something from our old and reliable friend—Jim Beam. Now, before we sip, let’s rewind—way, way back to 1795. That’s right, Jim Beam is a certified bourbon elder, clocking in at a staggering 230 years old this year! The man behind the magic, Jakob Beam, sold his first barrel of corn whiskey in Kentucky back when the U.S. was just a fledgling country. Fast forward through seven generations (and one rather annoying Prohibition detour), and the Beam family is still crafting bourbon the old-fashioned way—with heart, heritage, and just the right amount of heat. Straight from the Beam rickhouses and into my glass, we have a new release… ❄️ Jim Beam Winter Reserve    •   80 proof / 40% ABV    •   Aged 6+ years    •   Same mashbill, longer winter’s nap Now this one, folks—Winter Reserve—debuted in October 2024, and I scooped it up in November for a crisp $22. With an extra couple years in the barrel, this dram steps things up with richer oak, darker spice, and a velvety finish that lingers like the warmth of a holiday fireplace. It’s got that winter soul but still sips smooth enough for any season. Watch the full tasting to see why I believe this is a serious sleeper hit in the Beam lineup. ⸻ The pour starts with that unmistakable Jim Beam DNA—a mashbill of corn (77%), rye (13%), and malted barley (10%) —but each takes a seasonal twist that makes it worth your while, whether you’re sipping under a summer sun or curled up during a chilly winter night. So, how do they stack up to your everyday Beam or maybe that beloved Black Label? Well, you’ll just have to join me in the tasting to find out! 😉 🎥 Head over to the video—hit like, drop a comment, and subscribe if you haven’t already. Let me know your favorite seasonal sip, or tell me if you’ve tried either of these! Until next time—wherever your bourbon adventures take you—be it beach, bonfire, or back porch… 🥃 Cheers, my fun and crazy friends! 🥃 Stay sippin’, stay smiling, and I’ll see you on the flipside. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/?si=Tqk4H06Ce84plARd Full video bottle review: https://youtu.be/fC5c8DFp2Jw?si=YuDwsUhbjEZdBbtd ⸻ Belmont Björn - BBBB -

One must acknowledge Jim Beam for many accomplishments, particularly their unwavering consistency. Their main line features identical labeling and bottle shape, containing a product significantly undervalued for its price. Initially, I mistook this for a flavored whiskey due to the label mentioning "vanilla and cinnamon." However, further investigation revealed it to be a respectable aged bourbon (impressively aged for 6 years at such a low cost, especially compared to the overpriced, young craft options) with a fun, though predictable, finish from toasted oak barrels. The low proof is characteristic of the brand, and the double barreling should provide enough flavor variation to differentiate it from the rest of their core range. The deep chestnut color is warmer than expected for its age, likely due to the fresh, toasted barrel concentrating the internal hue. However, the proof diminishes the color's intensity at the edge, creating a very watery appearance. The nose is surprisingly quite hot and spicy, initially presenting notes of red berries or red wine. Underlying this are hints of citrus and toasted baking spices, but a potent, spicy cinnamon dominates the overall aroma. Initial sips are weak and somewhat watery, but the flavor emerges as sweet plantain, bubblegum yeast, cinnamon, and a creamy nuttiness. The finish is dry and spicy, with only a slight heat, far less than the nose suggested. Subsequent sips offer more of the same, with the finish lingering on the gums, reinforcing the classic rye spice and flavor notes with each drink. This Jim Beam variation delivers exactly what's anticipated: it's mild and only subtly different from the classic bourbon, yet the distinction is unique and absolutely justifies the incredibly affordable price. It's a great bottle for gifting, appealing to the spirit connoisseur who will appreciate its novelty and uniqueness, and the casual drinker who can explore the transformative effect of a toasted barrel finish on a very standard bourbon. That said, it's a bit too weak to be truly enjoyed neat, but would be highly suitable in any cocktail, particularly for those who enjoy bourbon as the foundation for hot toddies.

Color: Medium Copper-Amber Nose: I can't identify a distillery by scent alone, though I could recognize an Old Forester easily. This aroma is very "Beamy," with lots of cinnamon and oak. Hardly any alcohol detected, which I appreciate regardless of proof. I do detect a hint of cherry, as well. Palate: (consumed with ice) The texture is a bit light. The bottle indicates vanilla and cinnamon notes. I believe I detect the vanilla, though I've never had a dram that made me exclaim, "Vanilla!"; however, I will concede "vanilla" is present. As the ice melts, a fruity character emerges. It's not overly sweet, which is fine. "Spicy" and "toasty" are the primary impressions from this initial tasting. Secondary Nose (as the ice melts and it airs out): Baked apples! Finish: Brief and slightly bitter, but in a way that complements the overall character of this spirit. This is good. Considering the price, I'd say it's very good. I'll likely purchase another bottle for holiday gatherings. A solid 3.75 stars, all things considered.

The aroma is quite subtle, featuring notes of charred oak, cinnamon, floral rye spice, molasses, and a touch of vanilla. This initial impression is softer than expected, given the hype around its flavor profile, coming across as somewhat thin and not very distinct from typical offerings. The taste is also a bit too mild, though it coats the mouth with the same charred oak, cinnamon, floral rye, and vanilla from the aroma. However, it lacks the boldness and fullness needed to make a significant impact. It's enjoyable for sipping but the flavors are so approachable that you taste it and then move on. It's quite a letdown when certain flavors are promoted but only deliver a gentle hint instead of a powerful burst. The finish is moderate with a slight spiciness and lingering cinnamon, while the charred oak quickly disappears. The cinnamon does have some staying power, but the other elements fade rapidly. It's a little disappointing, yet it serves as a pleasant drink when you don't want to overthink it, and sometimes that's exactly what's needed.

The vanilla is obvious on the nose. Otherwise, it's just typical Beam bourbon. On the palate, the vanilla is overpowered by the cinnamon. Suntory claims both the vanilla and cinnamon are natural byproducts of the second barreling. It may be true for the vanilla, but it’s hard to believe the cinnamon is “natural“. This drinks like Fireball with a bit of added vanilla. It isn’t unpleasant, but it’s a bit disappointing given all the hype. Fireball drinkers will probably like this one, aside from the $11.00 price difference.

The aroma is superb, full of pleasing spices and rich. The taste is wonderful. I no longer prefer very high proof spirits, and this is ideal. It became quite nice and sweet after a few weeks with some aeration. The toasted finish reveals extra vanilla and oak. Medium length finish. It's somewhat thin because of the proof, naturally, but at $20, it's an incredible bargain. The outstanding value warrants an extra half point. I strongly recommend it.