Beam has made it a point in recent years to deliver six distinct batches of Booker’s a year, each named given a unique name and back story. For this release of Booker’s, it is named after Booker Noe’s signature way of tasting bourbon. Beam has been very straightforward in releasing as much information as possible, including listing the percentage of each barrel aging location within the mix. Kentucky Chew is no exception and consists of a mix of:

29% from the 4th floor of 9-story warehouse D

42% from the 6th floor of 9-story warehouse D

8% from the 4th floor of 9-story warehouse I

8% from the 7th floor of 9-story warehouse I

6% from the 6th floor of 9-story warehouse J

2% from the 7th floor of 9-story warehouse J

5% from the 5th floor of 7-story warehouse N

The usual bold Booker’s nose is present. Ethanol mingles with classic scents of oak, vanilla, and caramel. The palate delivers sweet notes of raisins, syrup, vanilla, hints of orange marmalade, and of course a big dose of heat. The heat carries through and lingers throughout the finish. Fighting through beneath it are hints of oak, leather, and a dab of sweetness.

Kentucky Chew is very much in line with the Booker’s flavor profile. The first mass produced barrel proof bourbon continues to deliver big bold flavors inline with equal big doses of heat. While I didn’t find it to be a particular standout among other batches that have been released, I did find it to deliver the same bold Booker’s flavor profile that I very much enjoy. Whether you’re new to the Booker’s line, or a long time fan, Kentucky Chew is a solid pour that will please most.

‍The sample used for this review was provided at no cost courtesy of Jim Beam. We thank them for the sample and for allowing us to review it with no strings attached.