Bourbon lovers enjoy a wide variety of flavors and popular brands. Of all the bourbon varieties out there, one of the top choices among enthusiasts is Little Book Bourbon. So, if you’re unfamiliar with this craft spirit or just starting out on your bourbon-sipping journey, keep reading. We’ll be sharing everything you need to know, along with a few nuggets you probably didn’t know, about Little Book Bourbon.

1. Freddie Noe Created Little Book Bourbon

Little Book Bourbon is a premium offering from the Jim Beam Distillery, located in Clermont, Kentucky. And it was eighth-gen family member Freddie Noe who set out to make his family proud with his own signature blend in 2017. LBB actually combines different spirits to create an entirely new flavor profile. And Freddie Noe meticulously manages the distillation process, not resting until he feels each batch is perfect.

2. Little Book Bourbon Releases Once Annually

Little Book Bourbon launches annually as a series, unique with different flavors, proofs, and tasting notes. Also, it’s a custom production highly anticipated by bourbon and whiskey enthusiasts every year, especially among those who appreciate collecting iconic blends.

3. It’s Tagline Is ‘The Next Chapter in Bourbon Tradition’

Jim Beam® may be the best-selling bourbon in the world. However, Little Book Bourbon is often hailed as “the next chapter in bourbon tradition.” Eighth-generation Master Distiller and LBB founder Freddie Noe is bringing bourbon into a new phase. Moreover, it’s appealing to modern craft spirit enthusiasts in new ways. The tagline embodies each annual release by “chapter” and unique title.

4. Little Book Bourbon Differs from Bookers

Booker’s Bourbon and Little Book Bourbon do have a lot in common. For example, they both come from the Jim Beam Distillery in Kentucky. However, there are distinct differences to note between these two profiles, including:

• Bookers is small-batch bourbon, while LBB is a blended whiskey. 
• LBB is bottled at a much higher proof.
• Booker’s is typically bottled at cask strength.

5. Little Book Bourbon Ages for Four Years

Little Book Bourbon is categorized as a “standard American” single malt. This means it’s roughly 80% malted barley and 20% special flavoring, aged for at least four years. Each blend is customized, featuring a complex and customized mashbill, often given a unique finish via smoke or stave.

6. Each ‘Chapter’ Gets a Name

Because every Little Book Bourbon release introduces a new recipe and custom bourbon product, each comes with a unique name. Explore this breakdown of the past LBB Chapters, one through six, with mashbills and official titles.

Meet LBB Chapter 1 – ‘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

Taste LBB Chapter 2 – ‘Noe Simple Task’

• 8-year Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
• 40-year Canadian Whiskey
• 13-year Canadian Rye Whiskey

Try LBB Chapter 3 – ‘The Road Home’

• 9-year Basil Hayden’s
• 9-year Knob Creek
• 11-year Booker’s
• 12-year Bakers’

Explore LBB Chapter 4 – ‘Lessons Honored’

• 4-year Brown Rice Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey
• 7-year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• 9-year Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey

Meet LBB Chapter 5 – ‘The Invitation’

• 2-year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• 3-year Kentucky Straight Malted Rye Whiskey
• 5-year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• 15-year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Check Out LBB Chapter 6 – ‘To the Finish’

• 4-year Straight Malt Whiskey Finished with Cherrywood Staves
• 4-year Straight Malt Whiskey Finished in Applewood smoked barrels
• 4-year Straight Malt Whiskey Finished in Hickory smoked barrels
• 4-year Straight Malt Whiskey Finished with Maplewood Staves
• 5-year Kentucky Straight Bourbon

7. Little Book Bourbon Chapter 7 Released September 2023

The latest offering of LBB was launched in September 2023 with proof of 118.1. Meet Chapter 7, “In Retrospect.” The mashbill features “undisclosed” percentages of two ryes, one malt whiskey, and four unique bourbons.

• 18-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• 17-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• 10-year-old Kentucky Straight Rye
• 9-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• 5-year-old straight malt finished in applewood smoked barrels
• 4-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• 4-year-old Kentucky Straight Rye

Tasting Notes for Chapter 7

If you’re interested in exploring this latest offering of Little Book Bourbon, you can expect the following tasting notes and sipping experiences:

• Color: A deep, russet color with golden hues throughout
• Aroma: Hints of clove spice along with a subtle sweetness
• Taste: Prepare for a light smokey flavor with slight floral and vanilla hues, followed by a caramel touch.

More FAQs About Little Book Bourbon

Check out these Little Book Bourbon FAQs and quick answers to round out your complete LBB knowledge.

How much does Little Book 2023 cost?

Getting your hands on LBB releases will set you back anywhere from $125 to $200. Chapter 7 has a limited nationwide release and bears a suggested retail price of $150.

Why is it called Little Book Bourbon?

LBB’s name honors the founder’s (Freddie Noe) nickname, given to him by his grandfather, Booker Noe. Additionally, Little Book Bourbon transcends as it’s own unique brand, customized with blends of generational whiskeys and bourbons.

What’s the best way to enjoy Little Book Bourbon?

You can certainly find a delicious craft cocktail recipe for your LLB. However, most enthusiasts say it’s best enjoyed neat or on the rocks.

Other Jim Beam Distillery Bourbons to Add to Your Roster of Favorites

In addition to the premium Little Book Bourbon, the Jim Beam Distillery is responsible for producing a vast collection of bourbons. With a history dating back to its origins in 1795, the Jim Beam family continues to honor its rich heritage of whiskey and bourbon making. So, try LBB, then begin exploring the entire list of bourbon favorites!

• Jim Beam Devil’s Cut
• Knob Creek
• Jim Beam Bourbon
• Booker’s
• Old Grand-Dad
• Basil Hayden’s
• Jim Beam Double Oak
• Old Crow
• Red Stag black cherry
• Basil Hayden Bourbon
• Jim Beam Rye
• Jim Beam Apple
• Jim Beam Peach

Let Distillery Nearby Be Your Bourbon Guide

Whether you’re just starting out on your bourbon-sipping journey or consider yourself an aficionado, let Distillery Nearby be your tour guide. So, find legendary distillery tours for all your favorite craft spirits from coast to coast! Try Little Book Bourbon and then build out your appreciation for all kinds of bourbon blends with our locator to help.