As a bourbon enthusiast, I recently had the pleasure of tasting Booker’s Bourbon Batch 2018-03 “Kentucky Chew.” This unique bourbon comes from the Jim Beam distillery and is part of the distinguished Booker’s Bourbon series. With an intriguing name like “Kentucky Chew,” I was eager to explore the tasting notes, mash bill, and overall experience of this particular batch.
photo credit: www.bookersbourbon.com
Table of Contents
Booker’s Bourbon 2018 Kentucky Chew Overview
Product History
The name “Kentucky Chew” refers to the way Booker Noe, the creator of Booker’s Bourbon, would taste his whiskey. He would take a sip, work it around in his mouth, and smack his lips a few times, as if he were chewing on the liquid. Today, Booker’s son, Fred Noe, who is the current Beam Master Distiller, carries on this tasting tradition as he selects batches for release.
Booker’s 2018 Kentucky Chew is a splendid part of the renowned Jim Beam distillery’s lineup. It features some classic bourbon flavors, such as oak, vanilla, and caramel. With sweet notes of raisins and hints of orange marmalade, it also delivers a robust heat that lingers throughout the finish.
One interesting fact about this bourbon is its high proof—63.35% ABV. It’s aged for 6 years, 4 months, and 12 days, giving it a distinct character that bourbon lovers can appreciate.
Price Range
Now, let’s talk about the price of this fantastic bourbon. Booker’s Bourbon 2018 Kentucky Chew can be found retailing at a price range of around $69.99 to $74.99 for a 750 mL bottle. Keep in mind that this may vary based on location and availability.
Tasting Notes
Aroma
When I first nosed the Booker’s Bourbon 2018 Kentucky Chew, I was greeted by a delightful blend of classic bourbon scents, namely oak, vanilla, and caramel. I also detected ethanol, giving the aroma a robust presence. The more I smelled it, the more I noticed additional layers like aromatic spices, fruit, and roasted nuts, hinting at its complex flavor profile.
Flavor
Taking my first sip, a wave of flavors washed over my palate. The sweetness of raisins and syrup combined with the cozy warmth of vanilla, while hints of orange marmalade and dark fruit, like figs, complemented the overall taste. Throughout the experience, there was no denying the prominent heat from the 63.35% ABV, but it only seemed to enhance the boldness of this bourbon.
Finish
As I continued to savor the Booker’s Bourbon 2018 Kentucky Chew, the finish gifted me with more nuanced flavors like toffee, barrel char, and rustic leather, accompanied by a pleasant warmth. I also tasted baking spices and cloves, which seamlessly melded with the initial flavors experienced on my palate. The finish was lengthy and satisfying, leaving me with a lasting reminder of the complex, well-balanced nature of this bourbon.
Rating
In my opinion, the Booker’s Bourbon 2018 Kentucky Chew deserves a high rating of 8 out of 10, as it delivers a tasting experience that hits all the right notes. The cask strength and uncut nature of this whiskey contribute to its full-bodied mouthfeel and impressive depth. Its combination of sweetness, heat, and nuanced flavors make for an enjoyable and memorable bourbon that I would happily recommend to others.
Mixing and Pairing
Best Mixers
When it comes to mixing Booker’s Bourbon 2018 Kentucky Chew, I highly recommend a few key mixers that complement its already rich and complex flavors. I personally enjoy adding a few drops of water or a single ice cube to open up the flavors and bring out the caramel, toffee, and roasted nuts notes. Additionally, the bourbon pairs well with fruit juices, particularly apple or some citrus options, as they balance out its spicy and bold character.
Cocktail Suggestions
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With cocktail options, I find it essential to use recipes that have complementary profiles to the bourbon. Here are my top three choices:
- Bourbon Old Fashioned: A classic choice that lets the bourbon shine. Muddle a sugar cube, a few dashes of bitters, and a splash of water in a glass. Add ice and 2 oz of Booker’s 2018 Kentucky Chew, and stir gently. Garnish with an orange twist or a cherry.
- Kentucky Mule: A refreshing option with a zesty kick. Pour 2 oz of Booker’s Bourbon and the juice of half a lime into a copper mug or glass filled with ice. Top with ginger beer and give it a gentle stir. Garnish with a lime wedge.
- Boulevardier: A sophisticated and bold variation on the classic Negroni. In a mixing glass, combine 1.5 oz of Booker’s 2018 Kentucky Chew, 1 oz sweet vermouth, and 1 oz Campari. Fill with ice and stir until well-chilled, then strain into a glass with a single large ice cube. Garnish with a lemon or orange twist.
Food Pairings
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For food pairings with the 2018 Kentucky Chew, I recommend dishes that complement the bourbon’s flavors and intensity. Here are a few options that I’ve found to be quite enjoyable:
- Appetizers: Caramelized onion and apple tarts, or a platter of assorted cheeses and roasted nuts, work great.
- Main Course: Spicy dishes, like barbecue-glazed pork ribs or blackened chicken, pair nicely, as they hold their own against the bourbon’s spiciness. For a vegetarian option, you can try a rich and flavorful mushroom risotto.
- Desserts: Dessert-wise, I find that the caramel and toffee flavors in the bourbon go well with pecan pie, apple crumble, or chocolate-based treats.
Conclusion
I have to say, tasting Booker’s Bourbon 2018 Kentucky Chew was quite an experience. As a whiskey writer, I’ve had my share of various bourbons, but this one truly stands out. The balance of flavors in this bourbon is commendable, and its nuanced flavors make it a must-try for any bourbon enthusiast.
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