Baker's Bourbon 7-Year Single Barrel Review/Tasting Notes
Baker's stands out as a distinguished yet understated brand within the Jim Beam portfolio, aptly named for Baker Beam's "quiet and independent-minded" persona. Originally launched as part of the distillery's prestigious Small Batch Collection alongside Knob Creek, Booker's, and Basil Hayden, it features a 7-year age statement and is bottled at 53.5% ABV, establishing it as a robust option within the mid-tier bourbon segment. Transitioning Baker's to a single-barrel format was a strategic move by Jim Beam to carve a distinct identity among its offerings.
Baker's Single Barrel caters to the astute connoisseur who surpasses the conventional choices. It appeals to those who have delved deeply into the bourbon landscape, have transcended transient trends, and now seek a pour marked by authenticity and distinctive character.
As the grand-nephew of Jim Beam, Baker Beam served as the 6th-generation Beam Family Distiller, dedicating 38 years to perfecting his craft at the Jim Beam Distillery. He ultimately held the position of distiller at the Clermont, KY, facility. In 1992, under the stewardship of his cousin Booker Noe, who was then the sixth-generation master distiller, Baker's Bourbon was introduced as part of the Small Batch Collection. It was a homage to Baker's unique charisma and an embodiment of his preference for a medium-bodied bourbon with a smooth finish.
Distilled at a lower proof than typical whiskies from the James B. Beam Distilling Company, Baker's Bourbon achieves an enhanced richness in flavor. As a single-barrel bourbon, its tasting profile distinguishes itself with variations from barrel to barrel and bottle to bottle, offering a singular and sophisticated tasting experience.
Tasting Notes
Nose: A sweet and rich combination of browned butter baking spices, cinnamon, peanut brittle, and a little oak in the background. A little wood char, and there's the tiniest hint of orange and cherry occasionally.
Palate: On my first sip, the palate presents a hint of oak, complemented by sweet caramel, cinnamon, butterscotch, and toffee, with a medium-thick mouthfeel. There's a nutty character, specifically dry nuts, and hints of cherry sweetness.
Finish: Medium length, warming, and becoming more balanced. There are some dry nuts, but we also get brown sugar, candied cinnamon pecans, and cooking spices. The cinnamon hangs on, and there is a touch of aged oak and some cigar tobacco. I noticed the cinnamon the most with this enjoyable finish.
Final Notes: Baker's was relaunched in 2019 as a single-barrel product with a new bottle and label design. The neck portion comes with some barrel information, including a serial number that you can enter at the Baker's Bourbon website to learn more about the aging of your Baker's Single-Barrel Bourbon.
Here's the information on the Baker's Single-Barrel Bourbon I'm reviewing. This barrel serial # 000135096, Warehouse CL-X, was aged on the 4th floor rack 52, Proof 107, Date Barreled 02-2014, Barrel Age 8 Years 11 Months.
This Bourbon has an outstanding balance of spice, oak, and sweetness. My overall experience was great, with a great taste, proof points, and an enjoyable finish. Remember that as a "Single Barrel," there will be some variation in the nose, palate, and finish between the different barrels. So, hopefully, you will have an enjoyable experience with your single-barrel bottle.
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