Legent Bourbon

A collaboration between two unique styles of whiskey-making, Legent Bourbon is the creation of whisky legends Fred Noe, Jim Beam’s seventh-generation Master Distiller, and Shinji Fukuyo, Suntory’s fifth-ever Chief Blender. Finished in a combination of wine and sherry casks, Legent is made using a historic recipe from Fred Noe’s family and is matured for at least four years in virgin white oak barrels. It is then blended by Shinji Fukuyo to create layers of spices, dried fruit and tart red berries.

Legent is a blend of three Jim Beam bourbons, two which are secondary cask finished. It’s a blend of sherry, red wine, and bourbon barrel finishes. The sherry casks tend to lend more spice, raisin, and dried fruit flavors, while the French oak red wine casks impart more mild, fruity flavors. The regular bourbon barrel finish imparts that traditional oak, caramel, and vanilla flavors and dark colors.

I love both bourbon and Japanese whisky, so for me, this is a natural connection. Especially since I have both American and Asian roots. Many times I choose my whiskey based on my mood…I will be going for this whiskey when I’m feeling appreciative of my relationship and collaboration efforts.

Tasting Notes: Legent Bourbon

Vital Stats: 94 proof (47% ABV). Kentucky Straight Bourbon partially finished in wine and sherry casks. Distillery bottling. 750 ml bottle.

Appearance: Clear, deep copper color. The bottle has a solid wood top with Kentucky and Japan etched. If you look intently at the front label you can see Fred and Shinji’s silhouettes.

Nose: It has lovely aromas of almonds, macaroons, brown sugar, dried fruits, and spice.

Palate: It’s warm with a medium to a long finish with some complexity. The oak and sherry finish play a larger role in the flavors than the corn. It is spicy with dark red fruit flavors and hints of leather. It’s bright on the tongue with a darker lingering finish. The addition of water brings out cornbread and floral flavors.