Knob Creek Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey (700ml)

Tasting note: Deep old gold ochre colour. Dried apple mingling with hints of peppermint tea followed by some caramel / vanilla sweetness. Big but balanced in the mouth with the spirit just gently nipping the tongue. Not as robust as you might anticipate given the ABV, it features bittersweet charry oak, faint liquorice and apple pie-like flavours finishing reasonably vibrant and mildly minty. 50% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... Though this new offering meets the technical criteria for rye (a mash bill of at least 51% rye), the sweet, caramelly flavors suggest a high-rye Bourbon—which makes sense considering that Knob Creek is best known for its Bourbon. Expect bold almond, oak, brown butter and pecan pie flavors. The drying baking-spice finish is more characteristic of rye, and has less bite than might be expected of a 100-proof spirit. 92 points - www.wineenthusiast.com

Rich copper color. Rich aromas of spiced nuts, dried fruits, cola nut, and honeyed cake with a supple, fruity-yet-dry medium-full body and a long, zesty candied citrus, pink pepper, anise, and mineral accented finish. A delicious and vibrant rye that is great on its own and in cocktails.93 points
International Review of Spirits Award: Gold Medal - www.tastings.com

Unlike the Knob Creek bourbons (which are 9 years old), there’s no age statement with this new rye, which tastes relatively younger. It’s bracing, vibrant, and spicy. (The rye contribution is unmistakable.) Cinnamon spice and crisp mint dominate, with charcoal, botanicals, ginger, nutmeg, honeyed fruit, vanilla, and caramel. Warming spice finish. Its dynamic personality should shine in cocktails, but from a sipping, drinking neat perspective, I wish it was a little older like its siblings. 85 points - www.maltadvocate.com (Summer 2012) Reviewed by: John Hansell