A Tribute to Family and Quiet Kentucky Afternoons.
Booker’s Bourbon has unveiled its second release of 2025: “By The Pond Batch”, a high-proof, uncut and unfiltered bourbon inspired by the late Booker Noe’s backyard pond — a peaceful retreat where he spent many sunny afternoons. The batch holds special significance for 7th Generation Master Distiller Fred Noe, who recalls helping his father build the pond and the memories they shared there. This latest batch carries a proof of 126.5 and is aged 7 years, 1 month, and 20 days. The suggested retail price is $99.99.
A Complex Blend Across Eight Warehouses
“By The Pond Batch” was crafted from barrels pulled from seven different production dates and aged in eight separate warehouses, showcasing a diverse flavor profile. Notably, 29% of the batch comes from the sixth floor of Warehouse G at Waterfill. The rest of the barrels were sourced from floors of Warehouses J, 3, 1, H, K, L, and 4 — each contributing distinct characteristics shaped by their aging environments.
Flavor Notes and Tasting Experience
Fred Noe describes the batch as having an inviting aroma with vanilla and oak on the nose. “The first taste I put into my mouth was very nice and had a sweetness I enjoyed, so I took a second,” said Noe. “The second taste was nice, and the finish complemented and completed the experience so well.” He reflected that his father would have enjoyed this release while sitting by the pond, feeding his fish and sipping bourbon.
Aged with Meaning and Kentucky Weather
This batch was selected during an unusually rainy spring in Kentucky, which Noe says influenced both the whiskey’s character and his inspiration. The color reminded him of the horses seen at the Kentucky Derby, while the wet spring added a sense of renewal to the release. As with all Booker’s batches, “By The Pond” is bottled without chill filtration and meant to be enjoyed just as it came from the barrel.
Personal Reflections on a Place of Peace
In a personal note shared with the release, Fred Noe recounts building the pond with his father, managing the challenges it presented, and ultimately finding it to be a place of peace and reflection. “It became something more: a place to reflect. It was where he sat with Freddie as a boy for hours on end, and where he enjoyed plenty of those warm Kentucky days.”
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