Whiskey Review/Tasting: Knob Creek Rye

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Knob Creek Rye Whiskey is a product of the United States, specifically from the Jim Beam brand, which is now owned by Suntory from Japan.
Type: It is a Rye Whiskey, which by law must contain at least 51% rye in its mash bill, with the remainder typically consisting of corn, maize, barley, and sometimes wheat.
Distillation and Maturation: This whiskey is part of the small batch bourbons from Jim Beam, indicating a selection of barrels that have matured in positions within the warehouse deemed to produce superior whiskey. It is aged in fresh American oak casks, as required by US law for the production of rye whiskey.
Age Statement: The specific age is not mentioned, but it is noted to be "patiently aged."
Physical Description: The whiskey has a 50% ABV. The bottle features a plastic cork and a special seal with an engraving, suggesting a premium presentation.

Balance of Flavors: The Knob Creek Rye Whiskey is characterized by a dominant spiciness attributed to the rye, complemented by the aromatic influence of fresh American oak casks.
Unique Characteristics: The spiciness of the rye is very present on the tongue, with additional notes of oakiness and licorice, likely intensified by the rye and the oak maturation process.
Comparison: It differentiates itself from other Jim Beam rye whiskies, such as the Jim Beam yellow label and the Old Overholt, by having a more pronounced rye spiciness.

Anecdotes: The acquisition of Jim Beam by Suntory, a Japanese company, is highlighted, adding an interesting layer to the whiskey's backstory. Despite the ownership, Knob Creek Rye maintains its American whiskey identity.

Significance: The whiskey embodies the traditional American rye whiskey style, adhering to the legal requirements for rye whiskey production in the US, including the use of fresh American oak casks for maturation.

"The rye is really present. The oakiness and in the back there's spice and I think it's licorice... the spiciness, the aggressive spiciness of the rye then is very fast and now you have a warm feeling."
"A wonderful whiskey. I think it's limited in its amount... But I hope with a big Suntory in the back well crafted single malt whiskeys, they should like those small batches."

Knob Creek Rye Whiskey is a spicy, aromatic American rye whiskey from the Jim Beam brand, now owned by Suntory.
It features a mash bill with at least 51% rye, aged in fresh American oak casks, and has a 50% ABV.
The flavor profile is dominated by rye spiciness, with notes of oakiness and licorice.
The whiskey is part of Jim Beam's small batch selection, indicating a careful selection of barrels.
The acquisition of Jim Beam by Suntory adds an interesting narrative to the whiskey's story.

Rye Whiskey Enthusiasts: Individuals who appreciate the spicy complexity of rye whiskey will enjoy Knob Creek Rye's pronounced rye character.
Bourbon Drinkers Looking to Explore: Bourbon aficionados interested in exploring the broader world of American whiskey might find Knob Creek Rye a compelling introduction to rye whiskey.
Collectors and Connoisseurs: The limited nature of this small batch whiskey, combined with its premium presentation and the interesting backstory of Jim Beam's acquisition by Suntory, may appeal to collectors and connoisseurs seeking unique bottles for their collection.