Baker's 107 Proof First Release (1985) 700ml

Experience a rare piece of bourbon history with Baker's Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 1985. This vintage, seven-year-old expression from the Beam lineage offers a complex tapestry of rich, aged flavors and a commanding 107 proof, capturing the essence of bourbon craftsmanship from a bygone era.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A captivating and mature nose presents a beautiful interplay of dried orchard fruits – fig, apricot, and stewed plum – enveloped by rich caramel and vanilla bean. Underlying notes of old oak, leather, and a hint of pipe tobacco provide depth, while a subtle spice of cinnamon and nutmeg dances in the background, signaling its Beam heritage and age.

Palate: The palate arrives with a luxurious and full-bodied presence, coating the mouth with a wave of sweet butterscotch and dark brown sugar. This is quickly followed by robust flavors of toasted oak, baking spice (clove, allspice), and a gentle peppery kick. Hints of dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and a faint minerality emerge, showcasing the seven years spent in wood and the higher proof. The rye influence, characteristic of Beam, provides a pleasant counterpoint to the sweetness without overpowering.

Finish: The finish is long, warm, and exceptionally satisfying. Dark fruits and caramelized sugars linger alongside a refined dryness from the oak. Building spice notes of black pepper and ginger gradually fade, leaving a pleasant warmth and a persistent echo of aged leather and sweet tobacco. The higher proof ensures a sustained and memorable exit, inviting another sip.

About the Distillery

Baker's Bourbon is one of Jim Beam's Small Batch Collection bourbons, named after Baker Beam, grand-nephew of Jim Beam. It's crafted using a unique Beam family recipe and undergoes a longer fermentation process for a richer flavor profile. While the specific distillery designation 'Baker's' is more a brand than a separate physical location, this 1985 bottling represents an early expression of what would become a celebrated name within the Beam portfolio, reflecting the distinct characteristics of their traditional sour mash production.