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Little Book Bourbon Prices, Sizes & Guide (2024 Best Edition)

Little Book buying guide

Last Updated on March 28, 2024 by Lydia Martin

The task placed on Freddie Noe to create a unique whiskey worthy of the Beam bottle lineage is somehow a huge responsibility.

Is Little Book a unique bourbon whiskey with flavors enough to match its proof point? Did the shy descendant of the distiller inherit the skillful tongue of the Beam master?

In this in-depth review, let’s learn more about Little Book Bourbon – price, history, flavor, and various blends.

What’s Little Book Bourbon?

Little Book Bourbon

Little Book Bourbon is the brainchild of Freddie Noe, an eighth-generation Beam distiller. It is a unique whiskey series with varying blends, tasting profiles, and alcohol strength.

It consists of five chapters meant to break the ordinary stuff tasted in regular whiskies. 

Fred conducted tests and reviews multiple times to ensure the bottles matched the higher-than-usual proof point.

These variants are a mix of aged bourbons, malted rye, Booker’s, and other whiskies. Hand-picked barrels are used to ensure a balance of flavor and character. 

Interesting Facts

Interesting Facts

History & Origin

Freddie Noe is the great-great-grandson of the master distiller Jim Beam, also known as Booker Noe. He aims to create a one-of-a-kind whiskey with the guide of his master distiller father, Fred Noe. 

Freddie uses the vast stock bottles of whiskeys inside Beam’s warehouses in this project. He blends high-quality straight whiskeys without using neutral spirits to create Little Book.

Jim Beam warehouses in the US and Canada houses whiskeys of the different (undisclosed) mash bill and varying palates.

How It’s Made

Bourbon Fermentation Process

Little Book Chapter 5, “The Invitation,” is the recent addition to the series. It is a mix of malted rye whiskey and bourbons distilled under Freddie Noe’s thorough supervision.

Like the previous releases, they review the nose and palates of the mixture depending on the results they are targeting. 

They tried various grain whiskeys made on spirits stored in all Jim Beam warehouses. The depth of the characters is a sign of the thoroughness and dedication invested in these releases. 

Age Statement

Each special release bottle has a different age statement. The recent addition, The Invitation, uses a 2-year-old bourbon base, while The Easy uses a 4-year uncut and unfiltered whiskey base. 

The Noe Simple Task has a rye whiskey base, while The Road Home uses 9-year-old whiskeys. On the other hand, Lessons Honored uses a 7-year-old Straight Bourbon whiskey as its base. 

Ownership & Distillery

Jim Beam Distillery

Little Book releases are owned and distilled by Jim Beam Distillery. It was released under Beam Suntory Incorporated. It is a special blend specifically produced by Freddie using the vast spirits created by Booker Noe kept in their warehouses. 

They blend the spirits inside the distillery to create a blend far from the characteristic aroma to the nose and palate served by the brand. The results are for those who expect something new and those who do not stick to the usual brand offering. 

Tasting Notes

Tasting Notes

Bottle Type Palate Nose Color Finish
The Easy sweet notes of vanilla, caramel, rye spice with corn undertone notes of smokey wood with hints of caramel and grain rich color of chestnut brown medium to a long finish with a complex but enjoyable flavor
Noe Simple Task bright, fruity flavors, strong oak notes, rye spice, cinnamon, and vanilla flurry scents of dried fruits, brown sugar, rye spice, and gummy candies. golden amber slightly warm finish that lingers
The Road Home chewy caramel, honey-roasted peanuts, baking spices vanilla and rye with hints of caramel, oak golden brown shade, and some auburn hues sweet and spicy finish with strong oaky notes
Lessons Honored rich almond flavor, charred wood, cherries, dark chocolate oak, brown sugar, vanilla, cherry candy yellow gold shade dry and balanced finish
The Invitation butterscotch, hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and toasted bread smokey oak, caramel, malted rye, and a hint of nutmeg.  golden amber  long, warm, and savory vanilla finish

Little Book Bourbon’s Liquid Stream Blends 

Little Book Bourbon’s Liquid Stream Blends 

  Blends/Whiskey Used
Little Book Chapter 01 – The Easy
  • 4-year uncut and unfiltered* bourbon whiskey
  • 13-year uncut and unfiltered* true corn whiskey
  • Nearly 6-year uncut and unfiltered* 100% malt whiskey
  • Nearly 6-year uncut and unfiltered* high rye whiskey
Little Book Chapter 02 – Noe Simple Task
  • 8 and 13 years Kentucky Straight Rye
  • 40-year Canadian whiskey
Little Book Chapter 03 – The Road Home
  • Kentucky Straight Bourbon
  • 9-year-old Basil Hayden
  • 9-year-old Knob Creek
  • 11-year-old Booker’s
  • 12-year-old Baker’s
Little Book Chapter 04 – Lessons Honored
  • 7-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • 4-year Brown Rice Bourbon
Little Book Chapter  5 – The Invitation
  • 2, 5, and 15-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • 3-year Kentucky Straight Malted Rye Whiskey

Common Little Book Bourbon Prices

Common Little Book Bourbon Prices

Type Size Alcohol By Volume Average Price
Ch. 5 – The Invitation 750 ml 58.4% Roughly $199.99
Ch. 04 – Lessons Honored 750 ml 61.4 % Roughly $168.99
Ch. 03 – The Road Home 750 ml 61.3% Roughly $149.99
Ch. 02 – Noe Simple Task 750 ml 59.4 % Roughly $142.48
Ch. 01 – The Easy 750 ml 64.1% Roughly $ 450

Compared to Other Bourbons 

Compared to Other Bourbons 

Maker’s Mark

Maker’s Mark is from the distillery created by Bill Samuels Senior in 1853. They are known for their smooth and savory bourbons. Its 750 ml is priced at around $260, which is more expensive than Little Book bourbons.

Knob Creek

Knob Creek

Knob Creek is also a product of Beam Suntory, a popular choice for whiskey connoisseurs. The depth and character of their Knob Creek Small Batch “2001 Limited Edition” is very interesting and tasteful.

This is priced at roughly $177 per 750 ml, which is in the same range as Little Book.

Evan Williams

Evan Williams spirits are popular and more expensive than other brands, especially their 23-year-old whiskey. It has a complex taste but has a very smooth texture.

Each 750 ml bottle is priced at roughly $350, which is higher than Little Book. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is cost bourbon?

The cost of bourbon can vary widely depending on factors such as brand, age, quality, and production methods. Entry-level or budget-friendly bourbons can typically be found for as little as $10 to $20 per bottle, while premium or limited-edition releases may command prices of $50, $100, or even more.

Additionally, older or higher-proof bourbons often come with a higher price tag due to the increased time and resources required for aging and production.

Ultimately, the cost of bourbon is influenced by a combination of factors, and enthusiasts can find options to fit a range of budgets and preferences.

Is Little Book whiskey a bourbon?

Little Book is a brand of whiskey created by Freddie Noe, the eighth generation distiller from the Jim Beam family. While Little Book releases may contain bourbon as part of their blend, they are not classified as bourbons themselves.

Instead, Little Book whiskeys are typically crafted using a blend of different aged whiskies from various distillation methods and mash bills.

These blends may include bourbon, rye, malt, or other types of whiskey, resulting in unique flavor profiles and expressions that differ from traditional bourbons. While Little Book may contain bourbon whiskey, it is not exclusively a bourbon brand.

How long is Little Book aged?

The aging duration of Little Book whiskey can vary depending on the specific release and blend crafted by Freddie Noe. Unlike traditional bourbons, which must be aged for a minimum of two years to carry the bourbon designation, Little Book releases are not bound by specific aging requirements.

Instead, Freddie Noe selects and blends aged whiskies from various barrels and distillation methods to create unique flavor profiles and expressions for each release.

As a result, the aging duration of Little Book whiskies may vary widely, with some blends incorporating younger whiskies for vibrancy and others featuring older, more mature spirits for complexity.

Each Little Book release is crafted with careful consideration of the desired flavor profile and balance, resulting in distinctive and innovative expressions that showcase Freddie Noe’s creativity and expertise in whiskey blending.

Will there be a Little Book Chapter 7?

As of my last update in January 2022, there hasn’t been an official announcement regarding the release of a specific Little Book Chapter 7. However, it’s worth noting that the production and release of new whiskey expressions, including those under the Little Book brand, are typically at the discretion of the distillery or brand owners.

Freddie Noe, the creator behind the Little Book series and a member of the Jim Beam distilling family, has showcased creativity and innovation in each installment of the Little Book collection.

Fans eagerly anticipate each new release, anticipating unique flavor profiles and innovative blends.

To stay informed about any developments regarding Little Book Chapter 7 or future editions, it’s recommended to monitor official announcements from the Jim Beam distillery or related sources.

Is bourbon more expensive than whiskey?

Bourbon is a subset of whiskey, so the comparison between bourbon and whiskey is somewhat akin to comparing apples to a specific variety of apples, such as Granny Smith. In essence, all bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon.

When evaluating the cost of bourbon versus other types of whiskey, such as Scotch, Irish whiskey, or Canadian whiskey, it’s essential to consider various factors influencing pricing.

While some bourbons can be relatively affordable, with budget-friendly options available, others command premium prices due to factors such as brand reputation, production methods, aging duration, rarity, and packaging.

Similarly, other types of whiskey span a wide range of price points, from affordable everyday blends to high-priced, limited-edition releases. Therefore, it’s inaccurate to categorically state that bourbon is inherently more expensive than other types of whiskey, as the cost of any whiskey depends on numerous variables.

Is bourbon a cheap whiskey?

While bourbon encompasses a spectrum of price points, including budget-friendly options, it’s essential to distinguish between affordability and quality. While some bourbons are indeed available at lower price points, often referred to as “value” or “entry-level” bourbons, their affordability doesn’t necessarily equate to inferior quality.

Many budget-friendly bourbons offer excellent value for money, providing a satisfying drinking experience at a more accessible price compared to premium or limited-edition releases.

However, the term “cheap” can sometimes carry connotations of lower quality, which may not accurately reflect the range of bourbons available. It’s essential for enthusiasts to explore various bourbons at different price points to find options that align with their preferences, tastes, and budget constraints.

Ultimately, while some bourbons may be considered “cheap” in terms of price, it’s crucial to assess their quality, flavor profile, and overall drinking experience to determine their value.

Is Jack Daniel’s A bourbon?

Jack Daniel’s is not technically classified as bourbon, although it is often associated with the bourbon category. Jack Daniel’s is produced in Tennessee and is therefore classified as Tennessee whiskey.

While Tennessee whiskey shares many similarities with bourbon, including the use of a mash bill primarily composed of corn and aging in new charred oak barrels, it undergoes an additional step known as the Lincoln County Process.

This process involves filtering the whiskey through charcoal before aging, imparting a distinctive flavor and character to the spirit. As such, while Jack Daniel’s shares many characteristics with bourbon, it has its own unique classification as Tennessee whiskey.

Is bourbon Scotch or whiskey?

Bourbon and Scotch are both types of whiskey, but they originate from different regions and have distinct production methods and flavor profiles. Bourbon is a type of American whiskey, primarily produced in the United States, with specific legal requirements governing its production.

Bourbon must be made from a mash bill containing at least 51% corn, aged in new charred oak barrels, distilled to no more than 160 proof, and bottled at a minimum of 80 proof. In contrast, Scotch whisky (spelled without the “e” in Scotland) is produced in Scotland and is subject to its own set of regulations.

Scotch whisky may be made from malted barley or other grains, aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years, and must adhere to strict standards regarding production, aging, and labeling. While both bourbon and Scotch are types of whiskey, they have distinct characteristics and are associated with different regions and traditions.

What proof is Little Book bourbon?

The proof of Little Book bourbon can vary depending on the specific release and blend created by Freddie Noe, the master blender behind the Little Book series. Little Book releases typically showcase unique flavor profiles and innovative blends crafted from a selection of aged whiskies.

While some releases may be bottled at higher proof levels to highlight the intensity and complexity of the blend, others may be bottled at lower proof levels to offer a smoother and more approachable drinking experience.

Therefore, the proof of Little Book bourbon can vary from release to release, with each installment showcasing Freddie Noe’s creativity and expertise in whiskey blending. Enthusiasts interested in a specific release of Little Book bourbon should consult the product label or official announcements for accurate proof information.

Is Little Book Chapter 6 a bourbon?

Little Book Chapter 6 represents the latest installment in the acclaimed series crafted by Freddie Noe, the eighth-generation distiller from the Jim Beam family. While each release in the Little Book collection showcases Freddie Noe’s innovative approach to whiskey blending, Chapter 6, like its predecessors, is not strictly classified as bourbon.

Instead, it is a blend of various types of whiskey, including bourbon, rye, malt, or other grains, carefully selected and combined to create a unique flavor profile and expression.

While bourbon may be a component of the blend in Chapter 6, Little Book releases transcend traditional bourbon classifications. They offer whiskey enthusiasts an opportunity to experience a diverse range of flavors and aromas that result from Freddie Noe’s creative blending techniques.

By incorporating different types of whiskey into each release, Freddie Noe showcases his expertise and mastery of the craft, delivering innovative and captivating expressions that captivate the palate.

How often is Little Book released?

The release schedule for Little Book whiskey is not governed by a predetermined timetable. Instead, the introduction of new chapters occurs as Freddie Noe deems appropriate, based on his creative vision and the availability of aged whiskies.

As the master blender behind the Little Book series, Freddie Noe meticulously crafts each release, ensuring that it meets his exacting standards for quality and flavor.

While there is no set frequency for Little Book releases, they typically occur periodically, with new chapters unveiled to the market when Freddie Noe believes he has achieved a blend worthy of sharing with whiskey enthusiasts.

This approach allows Freddie Noe the flexibility to experiment with different combinations of aged whiskies, resulting in a diverse range of expressions that showcase his ingenuity and passion for the craft.

How many bottles of Little Book Chapter 7 are there?

The production volume for each release of Little Book, including Chapter 7, varies depending on several factors, including production capacity, anticipated demand, and distribution plans.

While Little Book releases are often produced in limited quantities to maintain exclusivity and appeal to collectors, the exact number of bottles produced for Chapter 7 or any other installment may not be publicly disclosed by the distillery or brand owners.

Despite the limited production volume, Little Book releases are highly sought after by whiskey enthusiasts who eagerly anticipate each new chapter in the series. With its reputation for innovation and quality, Little Book has established itself as a beloved and respected brand within the whiskey community.

Enthusiasts interested in acquiring a bottle of Little Book Chapter 7 should stay informed through official announcements and retail channels to ensure they have the opportunity to experience this exceptional release firsthand.

Final Thoughts on Little Book Bourbon

The Little Book releases of Freddie Noe show complexity, depth, and character. It is a blend you can expect from somebody from the Beam family. The whiskeys in the book series showed what skill and curiosity could do. 

Freddie created special Jim Beam spirits that showed the remarkable talent that runs in the Beam family. The sad thing is that these are limited-release variants, which is why the prices can go high in the open market. 

References:

  1. Cocktail Queries: Why Does the “Cask Strength” of Whiskey Vary So Much?
  2. How to Infuse Spirits with Herbs, Spices, and Fruits
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