Beam, Straight Up: The Bold Story of the First Family of Bourbon

by Fred Noe, Jim Kokoris

An insider's look at the Jim Beam brand, from a 7th generation Master Distiller

Written by the 7th generation Beam family member and Master Distiller, Frederick Booker Noe III, "Beam, Straight Up" is the first book to be written by a Beam, the family behind the 217-year whiskey dynasty and makers of one of the world's best-selling bourbons. This book features family history and the evolution of bourbon, including Fred's storied youth "growing up Beam" in Bardstown, Kentucky; his transition from the bottling line to renowned global bourbon ambassador; and his valuable business insights on how to maintain and grow a revered brand.

- Includes details of Fred Noe's life on the road, spreading the bourbon gospel
- Describes Fred's journey to becoming the face of one of America's most iconic brands
- Shares a simple primer on how bourbon is made
- Offers cocktail and food recipes

For anyone wanting a behind the scenes look at Jim Beam, and an understanding of the bourbon industry, "Beam, Straight Up" will detail the family business, and its role in helping to shape it.

Genres: Nonfiction, Business, History, Audiobook, Booze, Biography

224 pages, Hardcover

First published August 27, 2012

Reviews

[JM · Rating 3 out of 5]

My friend who works at Beam-Suntory gave this book to me as a gift, warning me that I'd probably get a laugh out of it since it's full of folksy-ness. Well, Fred Noe's ghostwriter managed to cram a bunch of interesting anecdotes into 200 pages of the history of the Beam family and company. It's a fun read and, if you're interested in bourbon and beer, like I am, it's also pretty interesting.

[Jean · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a short book about the history of Bourbon in the United States and the history of the family of the Jim Beam Distillery. It is also the autobiography of Fred Noe. He starts with his early life with his famous father Booker Noe. The author goes into his life at college and then touring the country with a band. Then his return home to carrying on the family business.

Noe also goes into the business of distilling and how the family runs a famous business. Fred is the seventh generation Bean Master distiller, following in the footsteps of his legendary father Booker Noe. The author tells about the various brands at Beam and he also discusses other distillers which are his neighbors and friends.

Some of the stories in the book are humorous others provide enlightenment about the business and history of Bourbon. There is even a section of Fred’s favorite cooking recipes in the written and e-book format. I did not even know you could add bourbon when you were cooking, so I am not a cook.
Fred is an excellent story teller and the book makes for a delightful read. I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. Nick Sullivan narrated the book.

[Robert · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the the prequel to The Big Man of Jim Beam. This is about Freddie and his life. This one came out first, but If I were to read them now, I would read them in opposite order. Its a good read about Bourbon and Jim Beam.

[Jason · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick but fun history of the family and company

[Steven Delbove · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fun book, glad I got around to it

[Darla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great biography, history, storytelling, family folklore and recipes.

[Jeffrey Philips · Rating 4 out of 5]

Informative and humorous.

[LeviB · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lot of talk about the Jim Beam whiskey family. Mostly about Fred himself and then his dad, Booker. I am biased in that I like their products so it was interesting to me the life at the distillery. It’s a short read and I was engaged the whole time. 3/5

[Kelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. Heartwarming account of the Beam family, Jim Beam history, and how Jim Beam got to be the internationally recognized brand it is today. I loved Fred's stories, and his adoration of his father, who sounded like a real hoot. Cocktail and food recipes included too! And priceless business advice, that you would expect from a small mom and pop shop. Which, at the heart of it all, is what Jim Beam is. :)

[Roby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having gone on a tour of the distillery in October 2014, I decided that I had to know more about the history of Jim Beam. Mr. Noe 's book was very interesting and informative with a good amount of comedy tied in. I enjoyed. it.