Knob Creek Rye

Knob Creek is a brand that Jim Beam produces in their Clermont, Kentucky, distillery. It is a so-called small batch bourbon that aims for the higher segment. Initially this was put out on the market as a 9 Year Old, but nowadays it no longer carries an age statement. Apart from the Original 100 Proof, there is also a Single Barrel Reserve, a Smoked Maple Bourbon (actually a liqueur) and a 2001 Limited Edition (released to celebrate the fact that Fred Noe took over from his father Booker). This Knob Creek Rye was first introduced in 2012.

Sweet nose on loads of vanilla, but upholstered with flowers on the hand hand, and nail polish remover on the other. Quite creamy and soft though. Toffee kicks in with a vengeance.

The spices arrive first on the palate (black pepper, cloves and a truckload of cinnamon), followed by caramel, honey and toffee. Somewhat drying on menthol.

That continues in the medium long finish: menthol and spices. This fades gently to leave the mouth dry.

Neat this is both quaffable and good, but I can imagine this being God’s gift to bartenders. Even I feel the urge to get to work with this on a nice cocktail.

Find where to buy Knob Creek whisky