The bourbon sample used for this review was provided at no cost, courtesy of the respective company.
“In Retrospect” is a blend of six previously released chapters, while the 7th bourbon is new. Could incorporating past bourbons mean that creator Freddie Noe is bringing this series to a close? As of now, we will have to wait to see.
At an MSRP of $150, the bottle is higher than other typical Beam brands, but with the extra and meticulous care that the Noe family brings to the brand, it is worth a try.
When poured, almond butter and creamy toffee are the predominant notes on the nose. As the initial notes disperse, a slight floral aroma mixed with smokey oak pokes through.
The initial almond and toffee carry over to the palate, along with sweet vanilla and rye spice. I would not call the bourbon earthy, but it does lend itself slightly in that direction. The second sip does allow the sweet vanilla cream and caramel flavors to dance around a bit but is then suppressed by the smokiness of the oak. The finish is long and sweet. Apricots and candied cinnamon apples come to mind.
My only complaint is that it is too sweet for me personally. The bottle packs a ton of flavor that convolutes the overall profile.
I hope Freddie continues producing this series because it has the legs to be a staple in the Beam brand.
