Knob Creek 9 Year Old Single Barrel Reserve "120 Proof" Bourbon Whiskey

Knob Creek 9 Year Old Single Barrel Reserve at 120 proof is a bold, full-flavored bourbon crafted for enthusiasts. It strikes a compelling balance of rich oak maturity, deep vanilla and caramel sweetness, and robust proof-driven spice. It’s ideal for sipping slowly or pairing with bold food; not for the faint-hearted, yet surprisingly approachable when handled with care.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Distilled in Kentucky, this expression comes from Knob Creek’s Single Barrel program—meaning each barrel is hand-selected and bottled individually, unblended with other casks. The whiskey is aged for a full 9 years in new charred American white-oak barrels, adhering to the brand’s commitment to “patiently aged” bourbon. It is bottled at 120 proof (60% ABV) to deliver maximal flavor concentration and intensity.

The char-level, maturation locale (Clermont warehouses), the single-barrel selection, and the high proof all contribute to the robust character of this bourbon. Because each barrel is unique, slight variations may occur barrel to barrel—and the high proof retains much of the barrel’s natural strength and nuance.

Tasting Profile

Nose: Deep amber in the glass. Initial aromas of caramelized sugar, vanilla bean, toasted oak and baked toffee. As it opens, hints of dark cherry, roasted nuts and a mild smoky char emerge.
Palate: Powerful and layered. Rich vanilla leads, followed by maple syrup, brown sugar, dark chocolate, and warm baking spices (cinnamon, clove). Mid-palate shows roasted nuts, oak tannin and peppery rye-spice edge that keeps the sweetness anchored.
Finish: Long, warming, and substantial. The sweetness gradually gives way to dry oak, charred wood, dark cocoa, and lingering pepper. The high proof remains present but integrated, offering heat with structure rather than blunt burn.

Quick Overview

"Fruity aromas intermingle with light tobacco and maple. Sweet and spicy on the palate, the flavors start with sweet brown sugar then turn to intense cinnamon spice and even further develop with coffee and dark caramel on the finish." 93 Points Excellent, Highly Recommended, 2015 Ultimate Spirits Challenge

"Though complex and flavorful, the extremely high proof of this nine-year-old small-batch Bourbon means it won't be for everyone. Dose it with plenty of water (or your mixer of choice) to enjoy the dry character with notes of vanilla, leather, orange peel, clove, red-hot cinnamon and a long caramel finish." Wine Enthusiast 91 Points