Beam Suntory Releases Fifth Chapter Of Little Book Whiskey Series Titled "The Invitation"

 Beam Suntory Inc. has announced the release of the 4th chapter of the Little Book whiskey series titled "The Invitation." The Little Book series is created by eighth generation Beam distiller Freddie Noe and is an annual, limited-release. 

Freddie Noe states:

Chapter 5 is my way of inviting whiskey drinkers into different aspects of the category, regardless of whether they've been along for the ride since Chapter 1 or are just tasting Little Book for the first time. The Invitation' offers a chance for any curious drinker to expand their palette - whether they're a seasoned connoisseur or a newcomer to the category - due to the diverse liquids contained in the blend. Harmonizing such varied whiskies and ages was a delicate dance, but the effort was certainly worth it when you taste the final product.

This release is a blend of three whiskeys... with three of them made under the watch of Freddie Noe... the four are:

• A 2-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon distilled and barreled at a lower proof than normal creates a complexity not often experienced in a young whiskey. This prominent component delivers a sweet grain flavor and creamy mouthfeel to the fifth installment of the Little Book series that serves to balance the stronger oak flavors from older whiskies in the blend.
• A 3-Year-Old Malted 100% Rye never before released from the Beam distillery shows the true depth and potential of American Whiskey. It brings smoky, peppery notes to the final blend not traditionally common in rye whiskey.
• A 5-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon brings in hints of vanilla and corn sweetness on the nose and a smooth finish, balancing the flavors from the younger whiskies and the extra aged bourbon.
• A 15-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon delivers heavier barrel flavors to the blend, adding a deep complexity and characteristics that can only be achieved through extended time spent aging in a Kentucky rackhouse.

This release comes in at 116.8 proof (58.4% alcohol) and has an the same MSRP as the 2020 edition of $124.99 for a 750ml bottle. The tasting notes from the manufacturer are:

Flavors of caramel and toasted bread with brown sugar undertones and a touch of sweetness.

My Take

It's been hit or miss on if the Little Book releases show up in Ohio. The State is showing 2017 and 2020 was available, but nothing in-between. This is more of a collecting bourbon rather than a drinking bourbon so if you're into collecting, this could be one you seek out. If you're looking for bourbon to drink, I'd pass on this one and look for more limited releases at a lower price point. 

What do you think? Let me know in the comments.