Booker’s Bourbon Unveils Apprentice Batch for second release in the 2023 Collection

Booker’s Bourbon tells BourbonBlog.com that their second offering from the 2023 Collection is the “Apprentice Batch.”

This limited-edition batch boasts a robust 125.5-proof and has been meticulously aged for 7 years, 1 month, and 2 days. Priced at $89.99 for a 750 mL bottle, it is now available in limited quantities across the United States.

The Apprentice Batch pays tribute to the early days of Booker Noe’s career in distillation. This was far before Booker was the Sixth Generation Master Distiller – when he first learned the art of making bourbon under the guidance of his cousin Carl Beam. (photo of Booker pictured below).

In 1952, Booker commenced his journey at the Jim Beam Distillery. Soon after, his cousin, Carl Beam, took him under his wing. Carl was a no-nonsense man who guided Booker through the initial phases of bourbon-making and ensured that he was on the right path.

Two years into his tenure, the Jim Beam Distillery acquired a new facility in Boston, KY to bolster its production capacity. Here, Booker and Carl collaborated closely to get the distillery operational. In time, Carl passed on the responsibilities to Booker. This enabled Booker to refine and perfect his craft. The distillery was later named the Booker Noe Distillery in his honor.

Notes from Fred Noe of where he picked this Bourbon along with an archived BourbonBlog.com video interview with Fred and Freddie Noe at the Jim Beam family house in Bardstown Kentucky continue as you follow down the rabbit hole of this story.

The Artful Craftsmanship Behind the Apprentice Batch

The Apprentice Batch by Booker’s Bourbon is a testament to the artistic craftsmanship passed down through generations. Carl Beam, as Booker Noe’s mentor, showed him the intricacies of the distillery.

However, it was when Carl encouraged Booker to branch out on his own that his work truly began to flourish.

Like all Booker’s Bourbon batches, the Apprentice Batch underwent careful selection by Seventh Generation Master Distiller, Fred Noe. It holds true to the standards set by Booker Noe over 30 years ago, ensuring an uncut and unfiltered quality.

Tasting Notes from Booker’s

Booker’s tells us it exhibits a medium amber color with a pleasing oak-forward aroma.

It is gracefully balanced with vanilla and toasted nuts. On the palate, it presents a warm, lengthy finish that doesn’t overpower the tasting experience. The flavors unfold beautifully when accompanied by a touch of water.

Master Distiller Notes

This batch is made up of barrels that were aged in six different warehouses. The breakdown of barrel storage for Booker’s “Apprentice Batch” is as follows:

7% came from the 7th floor of 9-story warehouse H

9% came from the 4th floor of 7-story warehouse W

11% came from the 4th floor of 7-story warehouse 1

18% came from the 4th floor of 7-story warehouse O

19% came from the 4th floor of 9-story warehouse G

36% came from the 4th floor of 7-story warehouse Z