Bourbon series honours John Lee Hooker and Gibson guitars
John Lee Hooker Legacy Spirits has paid tribute to its eponymous blues icon and his guitars through a limited edition Kentucky Bourbon collection under the Boogie Chillen’ Bourbon brand.
Created by Hooker’s estate, the Strings of Legacy: Kentucky Bourbon Collection features four eight-year-old, single-barrel, cask-strength expressions distilled in Bardstown.
Referred to as ‘King of the Boogie’, Hooker is recognised for his impact on modern music. He continued touring and recording music until he died in 2001.
Glenn Thomas, founder of John Lee Hooker Legacy Spirits and Hooker’s grandson, said: “This is more than a collaboration; it’s a testament to my grandfather’s enduring legacy. By partnering with Gibson, we’re preserving the rebellious spirit and uncompromising craftsmanship that defined his life.
“This limited release collectable Bourbon is an act of honour, bottling the soulful sound and story that continues to resonate with fans around the world.”
Each expression represents a different chapter of Hooker’s career and honours his beloved Gibson guitars: ES-335, Les Paul Goldtop, SJ-200, and Epiphone Zephyr.
Codey Allen, cultural influencer at Gibson North America, commented: “John Lee Hooker’s influence on music continues to be immeasurable, and his favourite Gibson guitars were central to his powerful sound.
“A beautiful tribute to this legendary blues artist, we’re excited to celebrate our shared history and offer fans a unique way to experience a piece of that legacy.”
The limited collection will be available in the US and on the brand’s website, with each 750ml bottle retailing for US$129.99.
Four single-barrel expressions
The 1970s Gibson ES-335 is said to have marked a significant chapter in Hooker’s musical journey. He experimented with various sounds, but ultimately, his heart always returned to the essence of ‘true, heartfelt’ blues. The Gibson ES-335 single-barrel is said to embody that same spirit of the blues at 61.8% ABV.
Thomas explained: “I’m in awe of the sound of his ES-335 and the electrifying edge of his raw blues. He had a remarkable ability to make that guitar sing – and to bend notes so deeply that you feel them in your soul.”
Hooker’s 1960s Gibson Les Paul Goldtop guitar’s edgy, louder tone serves as the inspiration for the second expression, offered at 61% ABV.
“The Goldtop brings back memories of his absolutely unwavering integrity and that raw, captivating authority,” Thomas continued. “This Bourbon embodies that same power and is a tribute to how JLH could electrify and astound a crowd time after time. It’s a tribute to the blues legend – and the man I knew and loved.”
Thomas described the Gibson SJ-200 series: “This single barrel release is a profoundly personal tribute to granddad. I remember his (1950s) Gibson SJ-200, and I remember his presence growing up, when his deep, southern, soulful voice often filled our home.
“The blues have played a big part in my life. It wasn’t just about the blues – it was about family, about sharing his gift in its purest form. This Bourbon (62.65% ABV) honours all of it. It’s a tribute to his deep, private moments, the enduring warmth of his music, and the love that lives on in his songs – now reflected in this spirit.”
The last expression in the Strings of Legacy collection is dedicated to Hooker’s 1940s Gibson Epiphone Zephyr and is bottled at 61.4% ABV.
“This single barrel takes us on a journey back to our roots, connecting us to the Epiphone Zephyr, which was truly a bedrock of Granddad’s legacy,” added Thomas.
“He played his music with passion, with swagger, and with the deeply personal closeness you feel when imagining him with that archtop – bending those only he knew how notes. This Bourbon pays homage to those early days – the raw talent, the blood, sweat, and tears that launched it all. It’s a taste of where the story began, and a part of my family’s history.”
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