The Heart and Soul of Barrel Strength Booker's Barry's Batch: A Tribute in Bourbon cover art

The Heart and Soul of Barrel Strength Booker's Barry's Batch: A Tribute in Bourbon

The Heart and Soul of Barrel Strength Booker's Barry's Batch: A Tribute in Bourbon

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This batch of Booker's, named "Barry's Batch" in honor of former Beam CEO Barry Berish, delivers a remarkably smooth drinking experience despite its 125.7 proof, with rich caramel, peanut butter, and warm spice notes creating a perfect fireside sipper.

• First Booker's release of 2025 (Batch 2501) honoring Barry Berish, former Beam chairman who passed away in early 2024
• Aged 7 years, 2 months, 4 days with barrels from five different warehouse locations
• Classic Jim Beam mash bill: 77% corn, 13% rye, 10% malted barley
• Exceptional caramel-forward aroma with notes of peanut butter on the nose
• Drinks smoother than its 125.7 proof might suggest
• Adding a few drops of water enhances the peanut butter fudge notes
• Over ice brings out more graham cracker and reduces any mustiness
• Our barrel bottle breakdown score: 15 out of 18 possible points
• Available for approximately $100, making it a solid value for a premium limited release
• Demonstrates Fred Noe's commitment to maintaining Booker's legacy and quality

Remember, as Booker always said, enjoy it "any damn way you please" – neat, with water, or over ice!

The first Booker's release of 2025 pays heartfelt tribute to a bourbon legend who helped shape the industry as we know it today. Barry's Batch, named for former Beam chairman and CEO Barry Berish, celebrates a man who guided the company for over 40 years until his passing earlier this year.

This exceptional batch delivers everything bourbon enthusiasts seek in a premium barrel-strength release. At 125.7 proof, you might expect an aggressive heat, but Barry's Batch surprises with remarkable approachability. The nose immediately captivates with rich caramel aromas complemented by hints of peanut butter and vanilla that promise a memorable tasting experience.

The flavor journey begins with honey sweetness on the tongue, developing into luscious caramel mid-palate before revealing warming cinnamon and allspice notes. What truly distinguishes this batch is its perfect balance – delivering full-bodied intensity without overwhelming the palate. Following Booker's philosophy of drinking bourbon "any damn way you please," we explored it neat, with a few drops of water (which amplified delightful peanut butter fudge notes), and over ice (bringing forward subtle graham cracker flavors).

Aged 7 years, 2 months, and 4 days, this release demonstrates the meticulous barrel selection process that has become a hallmark of the Booker's brand. The blend incorporates barrels from five different warehouse locations, creating a complexity that tells the story of Kentucky's unpredictable aging environment. Each sip offers a window into why Booker's remains one of the most sought-after limited releases in American whiskey.

Whether you're a longtime Booker's enthusiast or new to barrel-strength bourbon, Barry's Batch represents a fitting tribute to both its namesake and the enduring legacy of the Beam family. Pour yourself a glass, raise it to Barry, and discover why this bourbon scored an impressive 15/18 on our scale. What memorable bourbon experience will you share with friends tonight?


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