Knob Creek Limited Edition 2001

Very sweet, rich, little oily, a little spiced, and lots of vanilla.

The setup: Glencairn glass, rested 15min. Vanilla, spice, and a little alcohol on the nose, but not overpowering. A little sweet. Vanilla and oak on the palate. Very smooth. I took the tasting notes advice and added an ice cube and it really opened up. Oak and chocolate on the back end. I definitely recommend this.

Body: looks fairly heavy and clings to the glass. The color is a healthy dark brown like lighter maple syrup. Nose: Caramel, apples, vanilla, cinnamon rolls. Palate: with just a sip on the tip of my tongue and lips it tasted like aromatic tobaccos. Exceptionally smooth mouth feel. Sweet corn, toasted oak, and nuts. Very little burn and the sweetness lingers with a variety of tobaccos, oat, and just a touch of the rye. Two drops of water awoke more a char and vanilla caramel notes. Absolutely superb. Finish: cinnamon, a very strong and enjoyable toasted oak, and fried apples. Overall: I hate that I opened this, but at the same time I am overjoyed by the product. It’s delicious and I wish it was more readily available. If it was I’d guzzle this bottle and find another one immediately. As it is, I will be taking my time.

Batch 2 Bottle #2066 Rye is VERY pronounced adding tons of spice and heat to the palette but soft notes of vanilla and brown sugar hide behind the strong spice overtones and become more easily accessible as the spirit opens up. Plenty of oak character, hints of char and cloves. Everything I want in a bourbon.