Jim Beam Winter Reserve

Introduced in late 2024, Jim Beam Winter Reserve is a seasonal release of the flagship Jim Beam brand to compliment the brand’s summertime expression, Jim Beam Sunshine Blend.  How does this new take compare with other Jim Beam labels?

Winter Bourbon? 

The Jim Beam brand spans more than two centuries, beginning with the Boehm family’s emigration to America, after which, they changed their name to “Beam”. Jacob Beam began the distilling tradition in 1795. The business was passed down through generations and continued operations before Prohibition. Following repeal, James Beauregard Beam rebuilt the distillery you see today on tours as the James B. Beam Distilling Company. Fortune Brands acquired the distillery in 1968 before selling it to Suntory in 2014. 

Beam produces a host of brands beyond the flagship Jim Beam, including numerous Knob Creek, Basil Hayden, Booker's, Baker's, Old Tub, and Old GrandDad. From the website, we’re told this expression has been aged for 6 years and is finished in two toasted barrels, offering a smooth flavor profile with notes of sweet vanilla, cinnamon spice, and a hint of clove for a warm finish that captures the essence of winter.

The Tasting 

The mash bill is standard  Jim Beam, containing 77% corn, 13% rye, and 10% malted barley. The finished product carries the same proof as Jim Beam Black of 86 proof - slightly higher than the standard 80 proof Jim Beam White. MSRP is $25, though with it being towards the end of the winter season, I found mine 50% off.  

Eye: Short thin legs of ochre color are displayed in my Gleancairn glass. 

Nose: Vanilla, nougat, salted cashews, and cinnamon.

Palate: Cinnamon spice hits on the tip of my tongue followed by subtle vanilla, and lightly toasted oak.This is well balanced between sweet and savory. 

Finish: Cinnamon and sweet toasted oak that is medium in duration. 

Overall: This was subtle and balanced between sweet and savory. The vanilla was more pronounced and it was also not as sweet as Jim Beam and Jim Beam Black can be. I confess I enjoyed this one - perhaps a bit too much - as this was my second bottle! No greater compliment than a repeat customer! Keep your eye open for this limited release!