Knob Creek (bourbon)

Knob Creek

Knob Creek is a brand of Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey produced by Beam Suntory, a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings of Osaka, Japan. It is named after the small stream, Knob Creek, which flows through the area where Abraham Lincoln grew up in Kentucky. The brand plays on this historical connection, emphasizing traditional values and the heritage of bourbon production in its marketing.

History

Knob Creek was introduced in 1992 as part of Jim Beam's small batch bourbon collection, which aimed to capitalize on the growing interest in premium bourbons. The brand was developed to offer a higher proof, aged whiskey that harkened back to the pre-Prohibition style of bourbon making. Its introduction was part of a larger trend in the industry towards premium and super-premium spirits.

Production

Knob Creek is produced in Clermont, Kentucky, at the Jim Beam distillery. The bourbon is made from a mash of corn, rye, and malted barley. Following distillation, it is aged in newly charred oak barrels for a minimum of nine years, a process that imparts deep amber color and rich flavors. The aging process takes place in warehouses in Nelson County, where the natural climate variations enhance its flavor profile. Knob Creek is bottled at 100 proof (50% alcohol by volume), which is higher than the typical 80 proof for many bourbons.

Varieties

Over the years, Knob Creek has expanded its lineup to include several expressions:

• Knob Creek Small Batch: The original 9-year-old bourbon.
• Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve: A 120-proof bourbon selected from individual barrels for its unique qualities.
• Knob Creek Rye: A straight rye whiskey that offers a spicier alternative to the traditional bourbon.
• Knob Creek 12 Year Old: An older, more mature version of the original bourbon, offering deeper wood and vanilla flavors.
• Knob Creek 15 Year Old: A limited-edition release that provides an even more complex and nuanced taste profile.

Tasting Notes

Knob Creek is known for its robust flavor profile, which includes notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. The higher proof contributes to its full-bodied taste, making it a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts. The rye variant introduces spicier and more peppery notes, appealing to those who prefer a more assertive whiskey.

Awards and Recognition

Knob Creek has received numerous awards and accolades from spirits rating organizations and competitions. Its quality and consistency have made it a staple on the awards circuit, further cementing its reputation as a premium bourbon.

In Popular Culture

Knob Creek has been featured in various media and pop culture references, often associated with its quality and heritage. It is sometimes seen as a symbol of sophistication and traditional American values.

See Also

• Bourbon whiskey
• Jim Beam
• Beam Suntory
• Whiskey production