Review: Knob Creek Small Batch

“As a result of prohibition, Americans developed a taste for softer whiskies, rather than the long-aged, big-flavored straight bourbons of the past. This is what motivated Booker Noe. He didn’t want just another “run of the mill” new bourbon. When Booker fathered the small batch movement over two decades ago, he created Knob Creek to restore the standards of pre-prohibition bourbon. The result is an undeniably big, full flavor that strikes your senses with a maple sugar aroma and distinctive sweetness.” -Knob Creek’s website

Company
: Beam Suntory

Distillery: Knob Creek Distillery

Location: Clermont, KY

Mash Bill: 75% corn, 15% rye, 10% barley

Age: 9 years

ABV: 50% (100 proof)

Release: Ongoing

Price: $31

Color: Golden blonde with a red tint.

Nose: Vanilla, oak, cola, brown sugar, it smells very sweet, slight rye pepper, no ethanol, magic, rainbows, and unicorns.

Taste: Very oaky, full bodied yet thin, slightly dry a little bit of vanilla. Slightly bitter but still mostly sweet. To me, tastes very different than the smell.

Finish: Medium finish, slight heat, mostly on your tongue, eventually moving to your throat. Bourbon is good for the soul.

Overall: This one is a lot lighter than the single barrel, it’s a nice simple Bourbon. And, it doesn’t pack too heavy of a punch. That’s probably due to it being 100 proof. It’s a great transition Bourbon, I would consider it medium level. So, beginners, here’s your ticket to the next level. I’m pretty excited to try this one in some mixed drinks, plus at $31, not a bad deal.

I’m not really sure why I waited so long to try the Knob Creek Bourbons, they’re a solid pour, and not as heavy as the Booker’s. My palate has definitely changed and developed like crazy though. Being as how I love that E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof, I should really go back and try the Booker’s again. Still can’t handle that Elijah Craig Barrel Proof #8. That one just kills my palate. Lalala. Totally went off on a tangent there, oh well! Welcome to my brain!

Mischief managed.

Rating: 3/5

3 thoughts on “Review: Knob Creek Small Batch

  1. This one was a game changer for Beam:
    The first “small batch” bourbon with that old-timey look and feel (and taste).
    I like this neat with just a dab of pure water to open it up.
    Let it sit for a few minutes (that’s the hard part) and then enjoy the show.

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