Booker's Batch 2015-03 'The Center Cut' Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Booker's Batch 2015-03 'The Center Cut' — the third batch of 2015, named for the center-cut barrels at the heart of Jim Beam's rickhouse inventory. Center-cut barrels occupy the middle floors and central positions of the warehouse, where temperature moderation is most consistent — producing the most balanced, full-bodied character in the Booker's small batch blend. Kentucky straight bourbon, uncut and unfiltered at natural barrel proof.

The Center Cut name is one of the most technically specific in the Booker's batch history — directly referencing the barrel selection philosophy that defines Booker's production. Rather than honoring a person or place, the 2015-03 name honors the process itself: the physical source of the barrels that go into each batch. It reflects Booker Noe's original approach to selecting the best barrels from the center of the rickhouse for his personal bottlings.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Warm caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, and baking spice at cask strength. Palate: Full and concentrated — toffee, charred barrel, rye pepper, dark fruit. Finish: Long and warming with persistent barrel spice.

Specs

• Distillery: Jim Beam Distillery, Clermont, Kentucky
• Style: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Uncut, Unfiltered
• Age: ~6–8 years (label-stated)
• Batch: 2015-03 'The Center Cut'
• Size: 750ml

Browse all Booker's Bourbon at Wooden Cork.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are center-cut barrels?

Center-cut barrels occupy the middle floors and central positions of Jim Beam's rickhouses, where temperature swings are most moderate compared to the extreme upper floors or exposed outer positions. This consistent environment produces the balanced, full-bodied character that defines the Booker's small batch selection philosophy — the 2015-03 batch name directly references this sourcing principle.