Booker's
Booker's 2024-03 Master Distillers Batch

This group consisted of legends like Booker Noe and his peers from various distilleries. Known as the “elder statesmen,” they paved the way for Master Distillers to receive recognition for their craft, becoming the very first class inducted into the Bourbon Hall of Fame. At a festival in Chicago, a gathering of these icons at a bar went unnoticed by most, until someone remarked to the bartender, “You’ve got bourbon royalty in here.” Laughter erupted, and glasses were raised, a fitting tribute to their legacy—though it wasn’t always so.

In earlier times, being a Master Distiller simply meant managing the distillery. These elder statesmen transformed that role, elevating the expectations for all. Their work evolved from long hours behind the distillery walls to global travels, where they introduced the world to the beauty of bourbon. They became spokespeople and celebrities, expanding the significance of their positions. Their influence has inspired countless others, instilling a love and respect for the intricate craft of whiskey-making. This batch honors their legacy and the path they forged for future generations.