Jim Beam does own Booker's bourbon. However, it is important to note that Jim Beam is actually owned by Beam Suntory, which is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings of Osaka, Japan. So, in a way, you could say that Booker's bourbon is ultimately owned by Suntory Holdings.
Booker's bourbon is part of the Jim Beam “Small Batch Bourbon Collection,” which also includes other well-known brands such as Knob Creek, Basil Hayden's, and Baker's. Each of these brands has its own unique characteristics and flavor profiles, but they all share the distinction of being small batch bourbons.
What sets Booker's apart from the other brands in the collection is its cask strength nature. Cask strength means that the bourbon is bottled directly from the barrel without any dilution or additional water added. This results in a higher alcohol content, typically ranging from 60-65% ABV (alcohol by volume). The exact alcohol content can vary from batch to batch, as each batch of Booker's is hand-selected by the master distiller and released as a limited edition.
I have personally had the opportunity to try Booker's bourbon on multiple occasions, and I must say it is a truly exceptional bourbon. The high alcohol content gives it a strong and robust flavor, with intense notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice. It has a rich and full-bodied mouthfeel, and the flavors really linger on the palate.
One of the things I appreciate about Booker's is the attention to detail in its production. The barrels used for aging are carefully selected and charred to enhance the flavor and complexity of the bourbon. The aging process can vary, but generally, Booker's is aged for around 6-8 years, allowing it to develop a deep and mature flavor profile.
Another aspect that makes Booker's unique is the fact that each batch is named after a person or an event that has played a significant role in the history of Jim Beam. This adds a personal touch to the brand and makes each release feel special and memorable.
While Jim Beam does indeed own Booker's bourbon, it is important to recognize that Jim Beam itself is owned by Beam Suntory, which is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings. Booker's stands out among the Jim Beam Small Batch Bourbon Collection due to its cask strength nature and limited edition releases. It is a high-quality bourbon with a strong flavor profile that is sure to satisfy bourbon enthusiasts.