I have been looking forward to getting my hands on Little Book Chapter 7: In Retrospect. Bottled at 59.05% ABV, it promises genuine character.
Palate
There is an initial bright, fruity note like melon or fresh peach. As the taste opens up on my tongue, I can pick out more of the sweet vanilla and caramel that comes from the bourbons in the mix, and also rye notes of allspice and clove. The mouthfeel is smooth, but has a rich weight to it. As the finish sets in, I can feel a bready vanilla. It has a decent length, and slowly fades into notes of cut wood and dewey grass.
Finish
In my experience, blends tend to smooth and average out the flavors of their component parts. Thats why its so striking that this blend can take seven different whiskeys and yet produce a taste with such clarity. I can feel the effort that went into precisely tuning this mix to perfect every note. The sweet notes are delicious, but not cloying. The spicy notes are engaging, but not distracting. The woody tones give balance without becoming bitter.rnrnIts a fundamental approach to the taste profile of Kentucky whiskey, but its so well executed as to feel like an ideal example of the style. Buy a bottle.
The Bottom Line
Little Book Chapter 7: In Retrospect is outstanding — one of those bottles that reminds you why you fell in love with whiskey in the first place. If you see it, do not hesitate. This one earns a permanent spot on the shelf.
