Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve 9 Year is my first try at Knob Creek and it did not disappoint whatsoever. I did find it rather difficult to remove the wax to open the bottle, but once the corked was pulled, the aromas were quite wonderful. Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve is matured for 9 long years using new American white oak casks in Clermont, KY. Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve 9 Year is made of 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley and bottled at 120 proof/60% ABV making it one of the better high proof bourbons I have tasted. However, the bourbon is more enjoyable with water added which brings out more robust flavors, aromas, and only enhances the balance. Color: Fantastic Amber Gold On the nose are hints of maple sweetness, vanilla, charred oak, honey, and a heavy aroma of cinnamon spice. Following is a warming, rich and creamy vanilla taste on the palate with hints of pepper, cinnamon spice, and oak with a pleasant balance of sweetness, spice and a nice complexity. The 60% ABV is calmed a bit by the rich vanilla sweetness. The finish is long continuing its warmth with hints of brown sugar, caramel, some baking spices, and has a slight leatheriness to it.