Knob Creek bourbon is a highly acclaimed and sought-after whiskey that has garnered a loyal following among bourbon enthusiasts. As part of the Jim Beam Small Batch Bourbon Collection, Knob Creek has established itself as a premium bourbon brand, known for its rich, full-bodied flavor profile and smooth finish. In this article, we will delve into the world of Knob Creek bourbon, exploring its history, production process, and most importantly, its rating among bourbon connoisseurs.
A Brief History of Knob Creek Bourbon
Knob Creek bourbon was first introduced in 1992 by Jim Beam, one of the most iconic bourbon brands in the world. The brand was created as a tribute to Abraham Lincoln’s childhood home, which was located near a small creek in Kentucky. The name “Knob Creek” is derived from the creek that ran through Lincoln’s family farm. The brand’s logo features a picture of a cabin, which is said to be a replica of Lincoln’s childhood home.
The Production Process
Knob Creek bourbon is made from a combination of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley. The grains are sourced from local Kentucky farms and are carefully selected to ensure the highest quality. The bourbon is distilled at the Jim Beam distillery in Clermont, Kentucky, using a traditional pot still distillation process. The bourbon is then aged in new, charred American oak barrels for a minimum of 9 years, which gives it a rich, full-bodied flavor profile.
Tasting Notes and Flavor Profile
Knob Creek bourbon is known for its rich, complex flavor profile, which is characterized by notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. The bourbon has a smooth, velvety texture and a long, satisfying finish. The flavor profile is well-balanced, with a perfect blend of sweet and spicy notes.
Rating and Awards
Knob Creek bourbon has received widespread critical acclaim and has won numerous awards in the spirits industry. The bourbon has been rated 90+ by several prominent spirits critics, including Wine Enthusiast and Whisky Advocate. In 2019, Knob Creek was awarded the “Best Bourbon” award at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Comparison to Other Bourbons
Knob Creek bourbon is often compared to other premium bourbon brands, such as Maker’s Mark and Woodford Reserve. While each brand has its unique flavor profile and characteristics, Knob Creek is known for its rich, full-bodied flavor and smooth finish.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Bourbon Brand | Age | Proof | Flavor Profile |
| — | — | — | — |
| Knob Creek | 9+ years | 100 proof | Rich, full-bodied, with notes of vanilla and oak |
| Maker’s Mark | 6+ years | 90 proof | Smooth, wheated bourbon with notes of vanilla and caramel |
| Woodford Reserve | 6+ years | 90.4 proof | Complex, with notes of fruit, spice, and oak |
Conclusion
Knob Creek bourbon is a highly acclaimed and sought-after whiskey that has garnered a loyal following among bourbon enthusiasts. With its rich, full-bodied flavor profile and smooth finish, Knob Creek is a must-try for anyone who loves bourbon. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of whiskey, Knob Creek is sure to impress.
Rating Breakdown
- Flavor Profile: 9.5/10
- Smoothness: 9.5/10
- Value: 9/10
- Overall Rating: 9.3/10
Recommendation
If you’re looking to try Knob Creek bourbon, we recommend starting with the standard 9-year-old expression. This bourbon is a great representation of the brand’s flavor profile and is widely available at most liquor stores. If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, we recommend trying the Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve, which is a limited-edition bourbon that is aged for 12 years in a single oak barrel.
Final Thoughts
Knob Creek bourbon is a true gem in the world of whiskey. With its rich, full-bodied flavor profile and smooth finish, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves bourbon. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of whiskey, Knob Creek is sure to impress.
What is Knob Creek Bourbon and how is it made?
Knob Creek Bourbon is a premium bourbon whiskey brand owned by Beam Suntory. It is made from a combination of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley, which is then fermented and distilled in small batches. The bourbon is aged for at least nine years in new, charred American oak barrels, which impart a rich, full-bodied flavor and a deep amber color.
The production process of Knob Creek Bourbon is carefully monitored to ensure consistency and quality. The bourbon is distilled at the Jim Beam distillery in Clermont, Kentucky, and is then aged in a temperature-controlled warehouse to slow down the aging process. This allows the bourbon to mature slowly and develop a complex flavor profile.
What are the different types of Knob Creek Bourbon available?
Knob Creek Bourbon offers several different expressions, including the original Small Batch, Single Barrel, and Smoked Maple. The Small Batch is the flagship expression, made from a blend of barrels that have been carefully selected for their flavor profile. The Single Barrel is a more premium expression, made from a single barrel that has been hand-selected for its unique flavor characteristics.
In addition to these expressions, Knob Creek also releases limited-edition bourbons, such as the Smoked Maple, which is infused with a hint of smoky flavor. These limited-edition releases are highly sought after by bourbon enthusiasts and collectors. Each expression of Knob Creek Bourbon offers a unique flavor profile, so there’s something for every bourbon lover to enjoy.
What is the flavor profile of Knob Creek Bourbon?
Knob Creek Bourbon is known for its rich, full-bodied flavor profile, which is characterized by notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. The bourbon has a smooth, velvety texture and a long, satisfying finish. The flavor profile is complex and nuanced, with hints of spice, fruit, and nuts.
The flavor profile of Knob Creek Bourbon is influenced by the aging process, which allows the bourbon to mature slowly and develop a deep, rich flavor. The bourbon is also influenced by the type of barrels used, which impart a subtle smokiness and a hint of char. Overall, the flavor profile of Knob Creek Bourbon is classic and traditional, making it a great choice for bourbon enthusiasts.
How should I drink Knob Creek Bourbon?
Knob Creek Bourbon can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, depending on your personal preference. It can be sipped neat, which allows you to fully appreciate the complex flavor profile. It can also be enjoyed on the rocks, which helps to mellow out the flavor and add a touch of water.
Knob Creek Bourbon is also a great choice for cocktails, particularly those that feature bourbon as the main ingredient. It pairs well with a variety of mixers, including cola, ginger beer, and citrus juice. If you’re looking for a classic bourbon cocktail, try making a Old Fashioned or a Manhattan with Knob Creek Bourbon.
What is the history of Knob Creek Bourbon?
Knob Creek Bourbon was first introduced in 1992 by Jim Beam, who wanted to create a premium bourbon brand that would appeal to a wider audience. The brand was named after the farm where Abraham Lincoln was born, which is located near the Jim Beam distillery in Kentucky.
Since its introduction, Knob Creek Bourbon has become one of the most popular premium bourbon brands in the world. It has won numerous awards and accolades, including several gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Today, Knob Creek Bourbon is enjoyed by bourbon enthusiasts all over the world, who appreciate its rich flavor profile and smooth, velvety texture.
Is Knob Creek Bourbon a good choice for beginners?
Knob Creek Bourbon is a great choice for beginners who are looking to try a premium bourbon for the first time. It has a smooth, approachable flavor profile that is easy to drink, even for those who are new to bourbon. The bourbon is also relatively affordable, making it a great value for the price.
One of the things that sets Knob Creek Bourbon apart from other premium bourbons is its accessibility. It’s a great choice for anyone who is looking to try a high-end bourbon without breaking the bank. Additionally, the bourbon is widely available, making it easy to find in most liquor stores and online retailers.
How does Knob Creek Bourbon compare to other premium bourbons?
Knob Creek Bourbon is often compared to other premium bourbons, such as Maker’s Mark and Woodford Reserve. While each of these bourbons has its own unique flavor profile, Knob Creek Bourbon is known for its rich, full-bodied flavor and smooth, velvety texture.
In terms of price, Knob Creek Bourbon is generally more affordable than some of the other premium bourbons on the market. However, it’s still a high-end bourbon that is made with the finest ingredients and aged to perfection. Overall, Knob Creek Bourbon is a great choice for anyone who is looking for a premium bourbon that offers a rich, complex flavor profile at an affordable price.