Frequently Asked Questions
Knob Creek 18 Year Old Bourbon is the pinnacle of craftsmanship, celebrating 30 years of rich tradition in bourbon-making. Aged twice as long as the flagship bourbon, this limited-edition release offers an extraordinary depth of flavor. With its luxurious copper hues, it delivers bold notes of caramelized oak, sweet vanilla, and nuanced baking spices, balanced by a subtly warm, lingering finish. Bottled at 100 proof, this bourbon carries the complexity of its extensive aging without overwhelming bitterness, presenting hints of cherries, chocolate, and toasted crème brûlée. Encased in a strikingly designed box, Knob Creek 18 Year Old Bourbon is an elegant choice for connoisseurs and collectors seeking a truly remarkable, oak-forward bourbon experience.
Process & Profile
Knob Creek 18-Year-Old Bourbon is aged twice as long as its flagship expression, offering unparalleled complexity. Its maturation in heavily charred American oak barrels delivers deep character notes and a luscious copper hue. Bottled at 100 proof, this bourbon exemplifies Knob Creek's commitment to pre-prohibition-style whiskey, striking a balance between robust oak influence and delicate sweet undertones. Key Attributes:- Proof: 100 (50% ABV)
- Mash Bill: 77% Corn, 13% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
- Color: Rich copper with auburn highlights
Tasting Notes
Nose: Emanating a rich aroma of aged oak, brown sugar, and caramel, the nose is further enhanced by hints of vanilla, hazelnut, cherries, and baking spices. These layered scents set the stage for an extraordinary tasting experience. Palate: Bold oak flavors dominate at first sip, complemented by sweet accents of caramelized sugar, toasted crème brûlée, and vanilla. Subtle notes of dark fruits like cherry and fig emerge alongside baking spices, clove, and honey, creating depth and balance. Finish: Long-lasting and warm, the finish features a harmonious mix of sweet caramel, leather, and oak, with hints of dark chocolate and lingering spice. The interplay between sweetness and drying oak ensures a satisfying close to each sip.What Makes It Special
- Full Maturation: Aged for 18 years, this bourbon showcases the expertise of the James B. Beam Distilling Co., with its beautifully balanced profile that avoids over-oaking while enhancing fruity and spicy elements.
- Heritage & Craftsmanship: Commemorating Knob Creek's 30th anniversary, this release honors Booker Noe's vision by pushing the boundaries of ultra-aged bourbon excellence.
- Presentation: Comes in an elegant, carefully designed box with a brass locking mechanism, reflecting the luxurious nature of this rare release.
How to Enjoy
Knob Creek 18-Year-Old Bourbon is best savored to fully appreciate its layered complexity:- Neat: Experience its intricate array of flavors undisturbed.
- On the Rocks: A splash of water from melting ice can unlock additional layers of sweetness and spice.
- As a Classic Cocktail: Though robust enough to enjoy straight, it can elevate an Old Fashioned with its rich and oaky character.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Knob Creek 18 Year Old Bourbon?
Knob Creek 18 Year Old Bourbon is a limited-edition, ultra-aged bourbon crafted to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Knob Creek brand. It is aged for 18 years in new charred American oak barrels and bottled at 100 proof, offering robust flavors of caramelized oak, sweet vanilla, and a warm, balanced finish.
What does Knob Creek 18 Year Old Bourbon taste like?
This bourbon features a full-bodied profile with notes of caramelized oak, hints of sweet vanilla, baking spices, and a touch of nuttiness. Its finish is warm, with lingering spice and subtle floral and fruit undertones, accompanied by complex oak flavors.
How is Knob Creek 18 Year Old different from the 9 Year Old?
While the Knob Creek 9 Year Old is a flagship bourbon bottled at the same proof (100 proof), the 18-year version undergoes twice as much aging, which enhances depth and complexity. The extended time in the barrel develops richer notes of oak, caramel, and spice compared to the more straightforward and accessible flavors in the 9 Year Old.
What is the mash bill of Knob Creek 18 Year Old Bourbon?
The mash bill is the same as other Knob Creek bourbons, consisting of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley. This creates a traditional bourbon profile with a balance of sweetness, spice, and body.
What is the recommended way to serve Knob Creek 18 Year Old Bourbon?
Knob Creek 18 Year Old is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks to appreciate its layered complexity. However, it can also elevate classic bourbon cocktails such as an Old Fashioned.
What is the price of Knob Creek 18 Year Old Bourbon?
The suggested retail price (MSRP) is approximately $175. However, as a limited-edition release, prices may vary and may be higher on the secondary market.
What makes Knob Creek 18 Year Old Bourbon unique?
This bourbon stands out for its extensive 18-year aging process and the use of a Level 4 "Alligator Char" barrel, which lends it a deeply caramelized oak flavor. It offers a balance of sweetness and spice without becoming overly astringent or bitter, a hallmark of well-aged bourbons.
Is Knob Creek 18 Year Old Bourbon available year-round?
No, this is a limited-edition release, first widely distributed in October 2024. Availability may vary, and stocks are highly allocated, so it is recommended to act quickly if you find it in stores.
Where is Knob Creek 18 Year Old Bourbon made?
It is crafted at the Jim Beam Distillery in Clermont, Kentucky, aging in the historic rackhouses for nearly two decades.
Is Knob Creek 18 Year Old Bourbon worth the price?
Many reviewers and bourbon enthusiasts consider it a worthy purchase, given its flavor complexity, quality, and the craftsmanship behind its extended aging. It is often compared favorably to other premium bourbons in its age range.
What proof is Knob Creek 18 Year Old Bourbon?
Knob Creek 18 Year Old is bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV), consistent with the brand's traditional pre-prohibition-style proofing.
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