Who makes it? James B Beam Distillery

Mashbill: unknown but it is a blend of 2yr, 5yr, 15yr Kentucky Straight Bourbon and 3yr 100% malted rye

Where it’s from: Clermont, Kentucky

When it Started: 1795 with Jacob Beam, changed the label to Jim Beam in 1943

Kris’ cousin Jason visits from Atlanta bearing a bottle of Little Book no.5. We find out that Freddie Noe used the nickname is grandad Booker gave him Little Book for this once a year offering. Also, Freddie Noe is an 8th generation distiller and this distillery has been around since the 1795 and of course Jim Beam is one of the pillars of the American whiskey world.

On the nose Kris found sweetness, caramel and an undetermined spice. Erik found earthy spices, an unexplainable bourbon smell and rubbing alcohol. Jason nosed sweet and caramel.

The palate bears no fruits, baking spices and heat for Kris but Erik thought is was deep rye-ee, fruity like Iron Smoke and a hint of banana bread. Jason had a late burn with a drop of cinnamon toast flavor.

Adding ice Erik says she’s a thick lady and prefers the one cube while Kris says it tones down the heat and more of the flavors break through. Jason, who is a cold whiskey fan, found that he could use two more cubes.

Kris gives it a 7

Erik gives it a 7

Jason gives it a 7.5

This once a year offering is usually around the 100-120 dollar mark but as it gets harder to find you know that prices go up and this particular bottle was found at 179.00

Who makes it? Not sure, some surmise it comes from Cork

Mashbill: barley, malted barley, pure Irish water

Where it’s from: Ireland to Brooklyn

When it Started: in 2019

This time we travel outside the US to Ireland and then back again. Even though this is an Irish whiskey produced in Ireland, it’s for an American brand call The Fighting 69th Regiment Irish Whiskey. Colonel James Tierney wanted a whiskey for his troops. Put out the word and finally Scott Reid stopped by with a Master Blender on hand named Chris Leskowicz. The result is a unique Irish whiskey that deserves your attention.

On the nose Kris could smell apple and honeysuckle. Erik got pears and an interesting spice.

The palate brings in subtle heat, fruit and unbelievably smooth. On the finish more of the fruity apple and pear that has something on it like cardamom, floral tones making you want to go back for another sip.

Adding ice brings out more of the fruity flavors and we agree this is at the top of our Irish whiskey lists.

Kris gives it a 7.5

Erik gives it a 8.5

Coming in at around 35 dollars, well worth picking up.