Fred Noe

Frederick Booker Noe III is the seventh-generation master distiller at James B. Beam Distilling Co. in Clermont, Kentucky. The great-grandson of bourbon pioneer Jim Beam, Noe continues a family legacy of bourbon production in Nelson County, Kentucky, following in the footsteps of his father and previous generations. The Beam family has produced whiskey since 1795, with only a brief interruption during Prohibition. Since the passage of the 21st Amendment, the family has maintained continuous bourbon production in Kentucky.

Noe was introduced to the craft at a young age. After graduating from Bellarmine University in Louisville, he worked under his father's guidance, learning all aspects of bourbon production, including distilling, grain selection, and fermentation. He began his career on the bottling line during the night shift, gaining firsthand experience in every part of the business.

Over more than four decades at the distillery, Noe has balanced innovation with tradition in the American whiskey industry. As the seventh-generation Beam family master distiller, he introduced products such as "Red Stag by Jim Beam," a black cherry liqueur infused with Jim Beam Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, expanding the brand's reach. Noe also developed "Jim Beam Devil's Cut," a bourbon made from liquid extracted from the barrel wood during aging. Both "Devil's Cut" and "Jim Beam Black" have received gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. He has played a key role in launching brands including "Jim Beam Honey," "Jim Beam Apple," "Jim Beam Signature Craft 12-Year-Old," and "Jim Beam Single Barrel." Noe also serves as ambassador for The Small Batch Bourbon Collection, which includes Knob Creek, Basil Hayden's, Baker's, and Booker's.

Noe has promoted the James B. Beam Distilling Co. brand globally, expanding its presence in international markets. He is recognized for his storytelling ability and his deep knowledge of bourbon history, making him a sought-after speaker at industry events and public appearances. Noe was inducted into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame, joining a lineage of Beam family members recognized for their contributions to the bourbon industry.

Noe has faced personal health challenges, including Type 2 diabetes and kidney issues that required a transplant. A longtime colleague and friend served as his donor, reflecting the strong relationships he has built within the industry. Following his recovery, Noe announced the appointment of his son Freddie as master distiller of the Fred B. Noe Distillery, marking the first time a father and son have simultaneously held the master distiller title in the company's history. Noe continues to oversee the James B. Beam Distilling Co. portfolio, which includes "Jim Beam" Bourbon, "Knob Creek" Bourbon, and "Basil Hayden." His career is characterized by innovation, authenticity, and a commitment to the heritage of American whiskey.