About the product
A bold limited release from Booker’s and the second rye ever to carry the name, The Reserves 2026 is a Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey finished in apple brandy barrels and infused with cinnamon. Aged 6 years, 2 months and 23 days and bottled uncut and unfiltered at a robust 125.1 proof, it continues the spirit of innovation that defined Booker Noe.
Inspired by Booker’s annual homemade “A.B.C. Wassail,” a winter tradition built around apples, bourbon barrels and cinnamon, this expression delivers bright apple, sweet caramel and seasoned oak on the nose. The palate opens with charred oak, vanilla and caramel, balanced by delicate cinnamon, leading to a long finish of warm cinnamon baked apple.
A full flavored, fall inspired rye that remains true to Booker’s uncompromising style while exploring new layers of character. Best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water.
Tasting Profile & Food Pairings
Taste Notes:
Nose: Crisp orchard apples, warm brown sugar, cinnamon spice, toasted vanilla, and charred oak.
Palate: Rich and full-bodied with layers of dark fruit, spiced apple brandy, pepper, roasted nuts, and warm baking spices.
Finish: Long, warming, and robust with lingering rye spice, subtle sweetness, and refined oak tannins.
Food Pairings:
Prime dry-aged ribeye steak or braised short ribs
Charcuterie featuring aged gouda, sharp cheddar, and prosciutto
Dark chocolate tart or warm apple pecan crisp
Smoked pork tenderloin with an apple glaze
About the brand
Created by 6th-Generation Beam Master Distiller Booker Noe in 1988, Booker's Bourbon pioneered the uncut and unfiltered cask-strength category. Today, 7th-Generation Master Distiller Fred Noe carries on his father's legacy at the James B. Beam Distilling Co., hand-selecting rare barrels from the center cut of Kentucky rackhouses to bottle whiskey in its purest, most authentic form.
