Bourbon is undoubtedly a symbol of the American national spirit, the quintessential Western tough guy, known for its wild, uninhibited spirit and unbridled spirit. When it comes to American bourbon, Jim Beam is a must-mention.
As the nation's top-ranked bourbon and the world's most popular, each bottle of Jim Beam is cellared for at least four years. In addition to using corn as its raw material, the interior of the aged barrels is intensely roasted over fire, resulting in a strong and unique flavor.
From corn to bourbon: Over two centuries ago, after the United States gained independence, the new government, to encourage westward migration, offered small plots of unused land to adventurous pioneers. The condition was that they plant a native crop: corn. Founder Jacob Beam, seizing the opportunity, responded to the government's call and went to Kentucky to grow corn. However, due to the difficulty of transporting corn, the immigrants turned to making a more popular product: straight corn whiskey. Jacob also began distilling his own whiskey, selling his first barrel in 1795 and naming his distillery Old Tube. Thus began the Jim Beam legend, spanning 200 years and seven generations.
With the rapid development of the American Industrial Revolution, the invention of the telegraph and steamship, and the opening of waterways and railroads, the Jim Beam family's bourbon became increasingly popular. During the Civil War, Jim Beam's whiskey was often used as a substitute for currency, considered more valuable than the Continental.
Glory after darkness—In the blink of an eye, the Prohibition era arrived in the United States. Distilling came to an abrupt halt, and Old Barrel Bourbon Distillery was closed for over a decade. Later, James Beam, the great-grandson of founder Jacob Beam, inherited the family business. With the lifting of Prohibition in 1933, 70-year-old James Beam immediately rebuilt the distillery in Clermont, Kentucky. Under his meticulous care, the distillery experienced remarkable growth.
In 1943, the original distillery was renamed Jim Beam to honor James Beam's contributions to the distillery's development. Because James Beam once said, "Any bourbon not signed by me is not authentic!"
Fast forward to today, and Frederick Booker Noe III is now the seventh generation of the Jim Beam family. He oversees and inspects the product, ensuring that today's Jim Beam bourbon is identical to the one crafted by his father.
Each new barrel containing the mash uses fresh yeast and a portion of previously distilled yeast, called sour mash. This yeast comes from the Jim Beam family's private stock and is carefully cultivated to maintain its purity and strength, ensuring the consistent flavor of each bottle of Jim Beam bourbon. It's said that James Beam cherished this yeast so much that he would take a jar home every week, fearing it would eventually become unavailable. This tradition continues, and today, Frederick, the seventh generation, still keeps the yeast at home.
Jim Beam bourbon whiskey has retained its unique, unmistakable flavor for over 200 years, and its taste is undeniable. You're likely familiar with Jim Beam's various products, such as White Label, Black Label, and the Collector's Edition. When drinking, people can add cola, Pulse, tonic water, and more, offering a wide range of options. Its stylish image and excellent taste have also made it a favorite among young people in cities and a top choice for parties and other occasions.
Equally acclaimed is Jim Beam's Small Batch boutique series, founded by sixth-generation bourbon producer Booker Noe. This series includes four bourbons: Knob's Creek, Bass Haydon, Baker's 7, and Books. The Small Batch series represents the most pristine form of bourbon, featuring barrel strength, high alcohol content, and unfiltered malt. The resulting liquor is a deep golden amber color, full-bodied and rich, with layered aromas of caramel, vanilla, and oak, and a sweet, balanced, and long finish.
Each malt is produced in small batches and positioned as a high-end boutique. Knob's Creek 9 Year Old is difficult to find due to its recent discontinuation, while Books' 9 Year Old has seen its price skyrocket following its acclaim in The Whisky Bible.
