Booker's Bourbon Batch 2016-06 "Noe Hard Times"

This absolutely benefits from a couple drops of water. The nose is mellowed and more sweetness comes out. {12-25: Actually, the water brings out much more vanilla. Some people may get this without water, but my nose needed the water.} I think there was more smoke before the water and none detected after. The mouth feel is rich or oily. I taste a sweetness of some sort. {12-25: maybe cherry} I do not have the ability to really distinguish the aromas and flavors but I really like this bourbon and it does not taste so high proof. It does does not burn at all. The finish is pleasant and lingers for a few minutes.

At a New Years gathering and someone said there was Bookers. I said, “Ooooh, what kind?” It’s this guy. The nose starts out sour and oaky. As it rises from the glass it becomes a drying aroma. It gives the impression of opening up an antique wooden chest. On the palate, there are herbs and spices up front, like basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. There is a juicy berry sweetness mid-palate, and lots of complexity at the back. Mouthwatering and incredibly astringent, this bourbon finishes burning all the way down, numbing and soothing. What I needed all 2017 but only got at its end. (Partially kidding.)

Ohh this is a good one. Had with @salvatore8 and @James-Pak for a nice Friday afternoon after a meeting. Beautiful smell. When you first crack the bottle you get a nice warm sweet caramel smell. There is a matching taste. It is hot for sure, but I wouldn't say too much. I would for sure enjoy this with friends. This is one of my favorite Booker's.

Sweet, smoky vanilla and caramel on the nose with a full, oily middle and a long leathery, spicy finish. All this with about three drops of filtered water in a 2oz. pour. I think it gets more interesting if you let it sit a bit between sips. I'll try the other two bottlings I have then re-visit all three side-by-side.

High proof, very complex. The proof/heat of it take away some of the flavor notes. It's an interesting change from the norm - unique flavor and feel, but not worth the $60.

William Oliver's Fort Collins Homecoming 2018 sweet hot deliciousness. vanilla honey and lingering rye notes. a really nice balance with a couple drops of water