Knob Creek Cask Strength Straight Rye

Barreled in 2009 Released: 2018 Proof: 119.6 Warehouse: A

wow! very very nice rye...

Mint and burn

Nose - (w/o water) Dark brown sugar, caramel, hint of honey roasted peanuts (w/ water) Slightly less sweet, addition of peanut brittle Taste - (w/o water) Sweet oaky brown sugar, caramels, hint of mint, honey roasted peanuts, cinnamon spice, leather & sweet tobacco (w/ water) Bit more dry on the palate, less sweet, honey roasted peanuts, almond/peanut skin bitter, dark toffee/caramel Finish - (w/o water) Lingering dull heat, oaky sweet, light woody mint stems, dark caramel syrup, dark peanut brittle w/ peanut skin bitterness (w/ water) Less heat, more oaky, sweet nuts, caramel, more sweet mint Score - 87/100 Final Thoughts - This one was quite nice. It was surprisingly well balanced and wasn't amazingly hot for the proof. Nice initially subtle Beam peanut funk that works very well here. If it wasn't for the light mint notes, I might have thought this was a high rye bourbon due to the nice dark caramel sweet and only subtle spice. This would be great both neat and I think is better without water and would also do well in a cocktail. Would I drink it if offered? - Yes Would I specifically order it? - Maybe Would I buy a bottle? - If I could find another for about $50ish