Uncover a rare piece of bourbon history with BAKER'S 1985, a truly exceptional 7-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon. Distilled in a bygone era, this 107-proof powerhouse delivers a complex symphony of caramel, oak, and spice, culminating in an unforgettable, velvety finish. A testament to time-honored craftsmanship, this is a must-have for the discerning collector.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A rich and complex bouquet unfolds with classic bourbon notes of warm vanilla bean, sweet caramel, and toasted oak. Beneath these foundational aromas, hints of dried dark fruits like fig and apricot emerge, intertwined with a delicate spice of cinnamon and nutmeg. A subtle undertone of aged leather and a touch of roasted nuts adds depth and maturity.

Palate: The palate is remarkably smooth and full-bodied for its proof, delivering a wave of sweet brown sugar, rich toffee, and dark chocolate. The seven years in wood are evident, with a well-integrated oak presence that contributes notes of polished wood and a whisper of char. Black pepper and baking spices (clove, allspice) build gently, balanced by a satisfying fruitiness, leaning towards candied orange peel and cherry. A creamy texture coats the mouth, leading to a profound sensation of warmth.

Finish: The finish is long, elegant, and exceptionally satisfying. Sweetness lingers with fading caramel and vanilla, while the oak continues to provide a gentle grip. A pleasant warmth spreads throughout the chest, accompanied by lingering echoes of dark fruit, a wisp of tobacco, and a final, subtle flourish of spice that makes you long for another sip.

About the Distillery

While the label simply states 'Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey,' Baker's is a small-batch brand within the Beam Suntory portfolio, named after Baker Beam, a grand-nephew of Jim Beam. Historically, Baker's was part of the original 'Small Batch Collection' launched in the early 1990s, aiming to showcase premium, aged bourbons from their extensive inventories. This 1985 distillation predates the formal launch of the Baker's brand as we know it today, making it a unique and likely more traditional expression of the distillery's older stocks, potentially even from a different era of production philosophy.