Indulge in the refined sweetness of Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon, a full-bodied whiskey flawlessly blended with natural smoked maple flavors. Crafted in Kentucky, this 90-proof bourbon strikes the perfect balance between rich maple and smoky hickory notes, complemented by velvety undertones of vanilla and caramel. With its smooth finish and subtle sweetness, it's ideal for sipping neat, on the rocks, or enhancing your favorite cocktails. Whether enjoyed as a luxurious after-dinner drink or paired with a hearty brunch, Knob Creek Smoked Maple promises an unforgettable tasting experience that satisfies both bourbon enthusiasts and those who prefer flavored whiskeys.
Process & Profile
Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon begins its journey as a Kentucky Straight Bourbon, aged in deeply charred oak barrels to develop its robust flavors. It is then infused with natural smoked maple flavors, creating a perfect harmony of sweetness, smokiness, and strength. Bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV), this bourbon showcases its bold character and meticulous craftsmanship, a hallmark of Knob Creek's heritage.
Key Profile Highlights:
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Appearance: Medium copper to amber.
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Aroma: Notes of smoked hickory, maple wood, and hints of earthy grain, complemented by vanilla and caramel.
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Flavor: A full-bodied blend of maple syrup sweetness, smoked wood, and rich caramel, with a subtle spice and nutty undertone.
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Finish: Smooth, smoky, and slightly sweet, leaving a lingering warmth.
Tasting Notes
Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon offers a sensory journey through its complex layers of flavor:
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Nose: Inviting aromas of smoked maple, oak, and vanilla with a touch of grain and leather.
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Palate: A well-rounded fusion of maple sugar and caramelized sweetness, balanced by the charred oak smokiness and a touch of nutmeg.
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Finish: A long-lasting, syrupy sweetness with a drying, woody kick that evolves gracefully.
This bourbon's robust flavors make it a versatile option, whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in innovative cocktails.
What Makes It Special
What sets Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon apart is its unparalleled balance of sweet and smoky flavors. This bourbon is part of Knob Creek's Small Batch Collection, developed by Booker Noe, a sixth-generation distiller known for pushing the boundaries of flavor. By blending classic bourbon elements with natural smoked maple flavors, this whiskey achieves a unique richness and complexity that bourbon enthusiasts and novices alike can appreciate.
How to Enjoy
Knob Creek Smoked Maple is a versatile spirit, perfect for a variety of drinking occasions. Here are some serving suggestions:
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Neat or On the Rocks: Let its robust flavors shine with simple, pure enjoyment.
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Cocktails: Add a unique twist to classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan. Try it in a Maple Bourbon Hot Toddy for cozy, comforting evenings.
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Food Pairings: This bourbon's sweetness pairs beautifully with savory dishes like bacon-wrapped meats or sweet desserts like pecan pie. It's even a delightful breakfast drink when paired with pancakes and sausage.
Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon is ideal for those seeking a bold and flavorful twist on traditional bourbon. Whether you are sipping it leisurely by the fire, experimenting with cocktails, or complementing a delicious meal, this bourbon promises an unforgettable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon taste like?
Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon offers a complex flavor profile. It delivers inviting notes of smoked hickory, maple wood, vanilla, and caramel. The rich maple sweetness is complemented by a smoky character, ending with a smooth and slightly sweet finish.
How is Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon made?
This bourbon is crafted by blending Knob Creek's original Kentucky Straight Bourbon with natural maple flavors. The bourbon is aged in deeply charred oak barrels, giving it a bold and robust character enriched with smoked and sweet maple notes.
What is the alcohol content of Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon?
Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 45%, making it 90 proof. This provides a full-bodied and flavorful drinking experience.
How should Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon be enjoyed?
This bourbon is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:
- Neat or on the rocks to savor its rich flavors.
- As a base in cocktails like the classic Old Fashioned or a Maple Bourbon Hot Toddy.
- Paired with desserts or breakfast items like pancakes and bacon, thanks to its sweet maple undertones.
What are some cocktail recipes I can make with Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon?
Popular recipes include:
- **Smoked Maple Old Fashioned:** Combine 2 parts Smoked Maple Bourbon, bitters, raw sugar, and club soda, garnished with an orange peel and cherry.
- **Maple Bourbon Hot Toddy:** Blend the bourbon with maple syrup, hot water, and lemon for a warm and sweet cocktail.
Is Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon too sweet?
While the bourbon is known for its pronounced maple sweetness, it is balanced by smoky and woody flavors. Some find it well-suited for desserts or cocktails, while others may find it too sweet for straight sipping.
What foods pair well with Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon?
Its rich and smoky maple profile pairs excellently with:
- Breakfast dishes like pancakes, sausages, and bacon.
- Sweet desserts such as pies and glazed treats.
- Savory items like smoked meats or barbecue.
Is Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon suitable for gifting?
Yes, it makes an excellent gift for bourbon lovers who enjoy unique, flavored spirits. Its distinct smoked maple flavor combined with its premium quality makes it a standout choice for special occasions.
What sets Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon apart from other maple whiskeys?
Unlike many other maple-flavored whiskeys, Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon combines natural smoked maple flavors with the depth and complexity of a small-batch bourbon, retaining a balance of sweetness, smoke, and traditional bourbon character.
