Editor’s Note: Whiskey Wednesday is a weekly feature in which we focus a spotlight on one of the myriad of whiskeys we’ve reviewed over the years. It should be noted that by clicking the buy link below our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.
The Knob Creek American bourbon label, owned by Beam-Suntory, is one of the cornerstones of whiskey regularly produced by the good folk at Jim Beam. Part of the “Small Batch Collection” alongside other whiskey stalwarts such as Baker’s, Booker’s and Basil Hayden, Knob Creek holds its place in the lexicon of all things bourbon as it is known for being a smooth 100 proof sipper that plays well either on its own or in a range of cocktails.
Knob Creek has a mash bill that is primarily corn, alongside smaller amounts of rye and barley. It sports a 9 year age statement on the bottle, having been patiently aged in white oak, as the brand puts it. Interestingly, the age statement was removed from the bottle back in 2016, only to be returned in 2019/2020 alongside a 12 year old bottling. Other variants exist of Knob Creek as well, including a popular rye whiskey.
From The Brand: The original that started it all, Knob Creek Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is still made to exacting standards. Knob Creek is aged to fully draw out the natural sugars in its charred white oak barrels. This exceptional, full-bodied bourbon strikes the senses with an oak aroma, a sweet, woody, full-bodied, almost fruity taste, with a long, rich finish. Created to reflect the flavor, strength, care, and patience that defined whiskey before Prohibition, Knob Creek is perfect neat or on the rocks with one or two ice cubes.
Official Tasting Notes: Rich, sweet, woody, full-bodied, almost fruity.
Our Thoughts On It: Without pouring on too much praise, I can say that I truly enjoyed my visit with Knob Creek. Its nose and taste are inviting, and I have found myself gravitating towards Knob Creek when at bars when my usual preferences are not available. I also appreciate such a pleasant drink being available for under $40 a bottle. That puts this quite high on my list of likely candidates for stocking my liquor cabinet.
A Cocktail To Try It In (recipe from the brand):
Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals.
By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
New Fashioned
- 1 part Knob Creek Bourbon Whiskey
- 1/2 part amaretto
- 1/4 part simple syrup
- 3 dashes bitters
- 1 orange peel
In a shaker with ice, stir in all the ingredients. Strain into rocks glass to serve neat and chilled. Garnish with a sliver of orange peel.