Review #8: Little Book Chapter 2: Noe Simple Task

Named in honor of the nickname Freddie's granddad Booker gave him, Little Book is an annual whiskey series featuring new, unique blends— a first for the family. Uncut, unfiltered and always one-of-a-kind, each limited release offers Freddie the opportunity to follow his curiosity to create a new taste profile greater than the sum of its parts.

From each spirits' mash bill and age to where they were stored in the rackhouse, there are a million decisions that go into the final blend. The possibilities are endless. Which is good. Because Freddie has no intention of stopping any time soon.

I originally purchased this bottle back in 2018, during the time I was a co-founder of a Whiskey Wednesday club at work. It was one of two "Booker" bottles I brought, the first being the Booker 2017-04. I can't really remember what I thought about it at the time, I was new to whiskey and haven't yet found the types of whiskeys I like. But as you can see it's been with us for a few years and is not empty.

As I picked up the bottle this evening to add it to the reviews, I was a bit worried that I won't enjoy it. There must be a reason it's not empty. Right? Well, I was pleasantly wrong. My first smell and taste was without water, this is a fairly high proof but I wanted to experience it prior to adding a bit of water. It was marvelous with & without.

This specific bottle is a blend of 8 year Kentucky Straight Rye, 40 year Canadian Whiskey and 13 year Canadian Rye.

Nose: Even with its proof, the nose was wonderfully floral and sweet. We got a lot of caramel coming through, bits of honey but an overwhelming amount of fresh floral notes. Like a thoughtfully put together potpourri. With a bit of water the sweetness and flower shop come even stronger and is so very well balanced.

Palate: Subtle cinnamon, biscuit and vanilla notes with a bunch of spices, almost over powering. The spices, I assume from the high proof, has a bit of a bite to it. With a bit of water, the cinnamon and vanilla really comes through and is very delicate.

When writing up this review, I dug a little bit into Little Book to see the most recent releases. I also found the Chapter 2 being listed for over $200, one place is listing it for $600!! (please don't..) At that price point, it's hard to recommend this. Don't get me wrong, it really is a wonderful Bourbon and can see myself coming back to it soon.

If you can find it at its original list price or close, grab it and enjoy it. If you're hoping to try Little Book, maybe find the newer chapters on release. Honestly I wouldn't mind trying some of the new releases.