Distillery: Jim Beam Distillery
Proof: 100
Age: 9 years
Utah Price: 34.99
Product Availability: General Distribution
Description and History
Knob Creek Small Batch 9-Year Bourbon is a well-regarded small-batch offering from Jim Beam that strives to evoke a more traditional style of American bourbon. Aged for nine years and bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV), it sits alongside other whiskies in the brand’s Small Batch Collection, such as Basil Hayden’s, Booker’s, and Baker’s. The aim is to recall the bold, full-flavored character of pre-Prohibition bourbons, though at times it can feel a bit heavier and more assertive than some drinkers prefer.
Introduced in 1992, Knob Creek was part of Jim Beam’s effort to revive the fuller-bodied, more robust bourbons that had lost prominence in previous decades. Named after a creek near Abraham Lincoln’s boyhood home, the brand is rooted in Kentucky’s rich bourbon tradition. The distillery in Clermont, Kentucky, has been in the Beam family for generations, and while Knob Creek reflects that heritage, it doesn’t stray far from the distillery’s familiar profile.
Tasting Notes
Nose:
The aroma is forward and sweet, with notable caramel and maple syrup notes. Deeper layers of charred oak and toasted nuts add complexity, while hints of vanilla and baking spices—cinnamon and clove—round things out. A slight citrusy edge from dried orange peel is present, though it’s subtle and may go unnoticed by some.
Palate:
On the palate, the whiskey is full-bodied and fairly bold. Initial sweetness from caramel and honey is balanced by dry, toasty oak and a warming spice presence. As you continue to sip, flavors of roasted nuts, dark toffee, and a bit of dried fruit appear, adding depth without becoming overly nuanced. An earthy undertone and a hint of peppery spice give it a layered profile, but some may wish for a more delicate or refined interplay of flavors.
Finish:
The finish is medium-length and warming, leaning into oak and spice rather than lingering sweetness. Slight smokiness from the charred barrel remains, leaving a dryness that can be satisfying yet somewhat austere. Mild vanilla and a trace of rye spice make a final appearance, though they don’t persist for very long.
Overall Impressions
Knob Creek Small Batch 9-Year Bourbon offers a fairly robust, classic bourbon experience. Its age and proof contribute to a fuller flavor profile, and while it presents a good value for those who appreciate bolder tastes, it may not captivate those seeking a gentler, more nuanced pour. This whiskey delivers on its promise of a traditional, pre-Prohibition-inspired style, yet it stops short of feeling truly exceptional. Still, it’s a solid option to keep on the shelf, especially for fans of more assertive bourbons who appreciate a hearty, straightforward dram.
