Cigar Spirits: Knob Creek Single Barrel
30 Jun 2011
I’ve always been a fan of Knob Creek. I recall my father picking up a bottle at some point when I was in college, and I remember it tasting far better than the Jim Beam I had grown accustomed to drinking at school. (Coincidentally, Beam makes Knob Creek along with other small batch bourbons that I’ve come to enjoy, including Booker’s and Baker’s.)
But I didn’t realize Knob Creek came in a Single Barrel edition until a friend recently bought me a bottle. (He owed me after he polished off most of a bottle of my Baker’s.) Sure enough, late last year Knob Creek came out with its first single barrel Knob Creek.
I
t’s the first expansion to the Knob Creek line since the brand debuted in the early nineties, and not only is it single barrel, its bottled at barrel strength (120-proof). While Single Barrel is a bit more expensive than the original Knob Creek expression at $40, you get more bang for your buck at a higher proof, plus each bottle takes on its own character because the liquid contents only come from a single barrel.
The Knob Creek Single Barrel has a deep amber color. The nose features oak, orange peel, vanilla, and spice. The initial flavor is toasted corn, burnt orange peel, vanilla, and an abundance of cedar. Also evident is a rich smokiness and hints of mint. The finish lingers with toasted notes.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the Knob Creek Single Barrel. The spirit is deep and intense yet balanced and rounded, which is impressive given its significant alcohol content. And it’s also only $8-10 more than the original Knob Small Batch, which makes a no-brainer in my book.
Not surprisingly, it’s a dream to pair with a fine cigar. Enjoy it with a medium- to full-bodied smoke with similarly balanced and rounded flavors. I can attest that the La Flor Dominicana Cameroon Cabinet, PG 15th Anniversary, and Don Pepin’s My Father all hit the mark.
Taking price into account, I may have just found a new favorite bourbon (it’s certainly in the top three) which brings me to my only two regrets about this spirit: First, that it took me over six months to try it. And second, that since I took the above photo, the level of bourbon in my bottle has dropped significantly, so I’ll soon have to pick up another.
photo credits: Stogie Guys
Patrick Ashby
Co-Founder & Editor in Chief
Patrick Semmens
Co-Founder & Publisher
George Edmonson
Tampa Bureau Chief
Thanks for the review. If smoking a Padron 1964 Anniversario, would you prefer the Knob Creek or Booker's True Barrel?
Mike-
In my opinion you couldn't go wrong with either one.
But if you really pressed me, I'd say pair a Padron 1964 natural with the Bookers and a Padron 64 maduro with the Knob Creek Single Barrel. Thought being the Knob Creek has a little more spice and heat to contrast with the maduro sweetness. Still both excellent choices for one of my favorite smokes.
Have not tried this one yet, but thought I would mention the new 90 proof Beam. It's worlds better than the original IMO. Thanks for the review.
I recently was introduced to bourbon by the folks from Astor Wines in NYC.
He suggested that I try Eagle Rare Single Barrel. Since I never had any bourbon before I didn't know what to expect but when I removed the cap I was greeted by a wonderful aroma. It is smooth to this rookie. I have paid between $21 and $31 for 750 ml. Enjoy!
Happy 4th of July.