A little background
Baker’s is one of the four small-batch bourbon offerings distilled by the Jim Beam. This spirit seems to be the least preferred bourbon in the family, especially when compared to Knob Creek, Basil Hayden’s, and Booker’s. However, Baker’s may soon be climbing to the top of your wish list. Traditionally, the spirit bottled as Baker’s small-batch bourbon is a combination of approximately 200 barrels. Baker’s Bourbon recently received a facelift.
Baker’s Bourbon is now exclusively offered as a single barrel product that is aged at least 7 years. This spirit was barreled in January 2011 and aged for approximately 8 years and 6 months. The serial number, warehouse, and age statement can be found on the neck of the bottle. Jim Beam decided on a traditional style bourbon bottle that is capped with a barrel ring inspired topper. Consumers will have to pay a little more for the unique expression and wardrobe change.
The current cost for a Bottle of Baker’s Bourbon is around $50 and is expected to be $60 for the new release. This product is currently being shipped out to stores and bars. It may take some time to reach your area depending on where you live.
(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)
Color
Medium Amber
Nose
Initially, there is an overwhelming alcohol note on the nose. However, after some time in the glass notes of oak, vanilla, and cinnamon appear.
Palate
The first sip has a thin to medium viscosity. The heat from this spirit is noticeable and gathers in the back palate. Oak is the most prominent note. The second sip coats the entire mouth. The same heat intensity follows the first sip with notes oak, spice, and peanuts. The third sip causes the mouth to water. A vanilla note emerged to accompany the other notes mentioned above.
Finish
The finish is long and pleasantly warm. Oak, spice, vanilla, and cinnamon are the most prominent notes.
In conclusion
Baker’s Bourbon has a new look and focus. This bourbon is now an exclusively single barrel product that ages for a minimum of 7 years. The heat of this spirit is noticeable and drinks hotter than the labeled 107 proof. Traditional Baker’s Bourbon fans will enjoy this bourbon.
Baker’s 7 Year Old Single Barrel Bourbon
107 Proof
The Good
- Single Barrel
- Long Finish
The Bad
- Lack of Complexity
- Nose
Complexity
2.5
Nose
2.5
Palate
2.5
Finish
2.5
Value
2.5
I prefer higher proof bourbons, so the 107 proof is no big deal, to me. But this was hot, thin, and muddled. So disappointed. I get that single barrels can be a crap shoot, but Knob Creek 120, for example, is a single barrel that is consistently smooth and rich, by comparison. Won’t be bothering with this again until they imptove their barrel selecting standards.
Great feedback. Yeah, it’s always amazing how whiskey can be over 120 proof and drink like it’s under 100. Then sometimes something that is 90 proof will drink like it’s 120!