The Whiskey Reviewer A World of Whiskey, Poured Every Weekday
By April Manning
Rating: B
Booker’s “Teresa’s Batch” 01-2019
(Credit: Beam Suntory)
For a brand that was first created 20 years ago as a Christmas gift for close friends and family, it seems fitting the first batch for Booker’s 2019 Collection is in honor of a long-time Beam distillery employee, Teresa Wittemer.
After being hired by Booker Noe over 30 years ago, Teresa has risen through the distillery ranks. From working in the laboratory and the Quality Control. She is now de facto part of the family and continues Booker’s son, current Beam Master Distiller Fred Noe, by hand-picking the worthy batches of Booker’s Bourbon that the founder would approve of.
The Bourbon
Booker’s is known for its higher proof with the range being 121 to 131 and “Teresa’s Batch” is no exception. This batch is aged to the specific period of 6 years, 3 months and 1 day, “Teresa’s” settles in with a proof of 125.9 (62.95 ABV).
This bourbon gives off a beautiful coppery glow that clings to the glass with a wonderful viscosity. Along with the usual vanilla and caramel notes, the nose is hit with earthy floral scents. And that is where the flowery imagery ends. As you imbibe the spirit, the front palette experiences an almost ghost-like hint of bourbon flavor that makes you appreciate the inevitable sting. The rest of the palette is awakened from the POW! of the sucker-punch that come from “Teresa’s” awesome flavor. This bourbon is not for the “light tongued” as it will take the curl right out of your nose hair. However, I highly recommend it to those with a more “cultured tongue.”
The Price
$79.99 for a 750ml bottle
