Booker's Black Wax 2002 Signed by Fred Noe

Experience Booker's Special Barrel Bourbon, an authentic, uncut, and unfiltered masterpiece from the heart of Jim Beam. Bottled at an impressive 128.4 proof and aged 7 years, this rich bourbon delivers a bold symphony of caramel, oak, and spice, exactly as Booker Noe intended. A testament to uncompromising quality and a must-have for the discerning bourbon enthusiast.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A powerful and inviting nose immediately greets you with rich caramel, dark brown sugar, and toasted oak. Beneath these foundational notes, hints of vanilla bean, roasted nuts (pecan, almond), and a subtle dark fruit compote (cherry, dried fig) emerge. There's a delightful underpinning of baking spices — cinnamon, nutmeg, and a whisper of clove — along with a characteristic Jim Beam peanut brittle note, indicating its high-rye mash bill heritage. The high proof is present but well-integrated, lending a warming spice rather than an alcoholic burn.

Palate: The palate is a full-bodied explosion of flavor, starting with a bold, velvety sweetness of toffee and molasses. The high proof (128.4) delivers an immediate warmth that spreads across the tongue, quickly followed by a complex interplay of charred oak, cocoa powder, and dark chocolate. The spice notes from the nose intensify, with black pepper, allspice, and a persistent cinnamon bark. The 7-year aging really shines through with a well-developed leathery quality and a delightful savory tobacco leaf note. Despite its intensity, there's a surprising creaminess that coats the mouth, balancing the robust flavors.

Finish: A long, lingering, and ultimately satisfying finish. The warmth gently fades, leaving behind a delightful warmth of well-integrated oak and sweet spice. Notes of dark chocolate, roasted coffee beans, and a peppery kick persist, accompanied by a subtle sweetness of burnt caramel. The nutty character from the nose makes a final appearance, with a dry, oaky conclusion that encourages another sip. The uncut nature is evident in the remarkable depth and persistence of flavor.

About the Distillery

Booker's Bourbon, a small batch bourbon from Jim Beam, was created by Booker Noe, Jim Beam's grandson and Master Distiller Emeritus. Booker sought to revive the tradition of his grandfather's preferred bourbon, bottling it 'straight from the barrel' – uncut and unfiltered – to deliver an unadulterated, bold, and high-proof expression of American whiskey. Each batch is unique and personally selected by the current master distiller.