Limited Edition
Strings
of
legacy
Four distinct expressions inspired by the iconic Gibson guitars that shaped John Lee Hooker's legendary sound. Each bourbon tells a chapter of the story.
This is history you can taste.
A tribute to his artistry and the soulful story that continues to resonate with fans around the world.
A
t John Lee Hooker Legacy Spirits, we believe a life's work can be tasted as well as heard. My grandfather, John Lee Hooker, poured his soul into his music, and his iconic Gibson guitars were essential to his powerful sound.
We are proud to partner with Gibson for the Strings of Legacy Kentucky Bourbon Collection. This limited edition series features four distinct 8 year old, cask strength single barrels distilled at Bardstown Bourbon Company.
"This is history you can taste."
CHAPTER ONE - 1940'S
Epiphone
Zephyr
This single barrel takes us back to our roots, paying tribute to the Epiphone Zephyr, a guitar that likely echoed through the earliest days of Granddad's incredible journey.
This bourbon pays homage to those first days, the raw talent and the blood, sweat and tears that launched it all.
Age
8.5
proof
122.8
mash
78/10/12
taste notes
Nose: Sugar cookie, vanilla icing, warm graham cracker
Palate: Sweet stone fruit, apricot, peach, cinnamon
Finish: Clean, satisfying, quick finish
- Glenn Thomas, Founder
CHAPTER TWO - 1950'S
Gibson
SJ-200
This single barrel release hits close to home for me, a tribute to Granddad's magnificent Gibson SJ-200. This was the guitar I remembered most clearly from growing up, the one he'd often play in the house.
Its deep, resonant voice filled our home with the blues, just for me. It wasn't about the stage then; it was about family, about giving his gift.
Age
8.5
proof
125.3
mash
78/10/12
taste notes
Nose: Espresso bean, dark chocolate, charred oak
Palate: Chocolate dipped black cherry, rye spice, molasses
Finish: Cracked pepper, rich soil, cured tobacco
- Glenn Thomas, Founder
CHAPTER THREE - 1960's
Les Paul
Goldtop
I think the Les Paul Goldtop was always just a different energy for Granddad. It was an edgier, louder sound and this single barrel captures that same fierce vibe.
It recalls those periods when he'd really cut loose onstage, that raw intensity that was just so riveting.
Age
8.5
proof
122
mash
78/10/12
taste notes
Nose: Soft vanilla bean, sweet cream, wildflower
Palate: Creamy, buttery texture, black pepper, honey
Finish: Long, warm finish of seasoned oak and old leather
- Glenn Thomas, Founder
CHAPTER FOUR - 1970'S
Gibson
ES-335
The Gibson ES-335 represents evolution, innovation, and the constant push forward. This bourbon captures that spirit of reinvention.
Honoring the guitar that helped Granddad evolve his sound while staying true to his roots.
Age
8.5
proof
123.6
mash
78/10/12
taste notes
Nose: Rich caramel, toasted oak, hint of vanilla
Palate: Complex layers of spice, dark fruit, honey
Finish: Smooth, lingering warmth with oak notes
- Glenn Thomas, Founder
Own the Complete Legacy
Four expressions. Four guitars. One legendary story.
or Purchase Individually
Strings of Legacy
A tribute to John Lee Hooker's artistry and the soulful story that continues to resonate with fans around the world.
Proudly designed by JLH Legacy Spirits