Top 20 Whiskies of 2018

#11 • Little Book Chapter 2 “Noe Simple Task”

  • Rank: 11
  • Year: 2018
  • Score: 93
  • Price: $100
  • ABV: 59.4%
  • Style: Blended whiskey
  • Place of Origin: Multiple (Canada, Kentucky)

The sophomore effort from eighth-generation Beam distiller Freddie Noe cements his place as an innovator and a talent. For this release, Noe blended 8 year old Kentucky straight rye, 13 year old Canadian rye, and 40 year old 100% Canadian corn whisky. Uncut and unfiltered, it pours rich, floral, and fruit forward, with flavors of marmalade, grilled pineapple, guava, and gummy bears. The bright, fruity sweetness is balanced with ruby-red grapefruit and the elder whisky’s rich leather, drying oak, allspice, and dark cocoa. A fascinating and flavorful ride. —Jeffery Lindenmuth