Knob Creek 9 Year Old Small Batch Bourbon

Reviving pre-Prohibition character with modern polish, Knob Creek 9 Year Old is a small-batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon aged nearly a decade in new American oak and bottled at a robust 50% ABV. Rich oak, caramel and vanilla drive a full-bodied, old-school profile that feels tailor-made for gifting—handsome on the shelf, generous in the glass, and deeply satisfying neat or in classics.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Toasted nuts and warm grain lift into honeyed oak, spring flowers and a flicker of black pepper. The palate is plush yet energetic, layering caramel, vanilla fudge and charred oak with a seam of baking spice and dark chocolate. Heat is well-harnessed; the finish glows long and savoury-sweet, trailing nut oils, citrus zest and lingering spice.

Key Details

• Producer: Knob Creek (James B. Beam Distilling Co.)
• Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Small Batch)
• Region: Clermont, Kentucky, USA
• ABV: 50% (100 proof)
• Volume: 700ml
• Maturation: Aged 9 years in new charred American oak
• Serve: Neat or with a splash of water; superb over a single large ice cube

Cocktail Pairings

At 100 proof it shines in a pared-back Old Fashioned, orange oils teasing out caramel depth. A Manhattan turns nutty sweetness and oak into velvet; a Boulevardier adds Campari’s bite for winter richness. Brighten with a classic Whiskey Sour, or go modern with a Paper Plane where citrus and bittersweet amaro dovetail. For highball ease, a zesty Kentucky Mule lets ginger spice play against char and vanilla.

Craftsmanship & Story

Created by sixth-generation master distiller Booker Noe to echo the heft of pre-Prohibition bourbon, Knob Creek is patiently matured to a 9-year age statement and bottled at a steadfast 100 proof. Time in new American oak builds the brand’s signature power and nuance, while small-batch selection preserves character. It’s a beam of heritage from Clermont, Kentucky, crafted for flavour without compromise.

Special Features

Age-stated at nine years and presented at 50% ABV, this is bourbon with backbone: concentrated oak sugars, ample vanilla, and a satisfying chew that welcomes a cube or a splash. The small-batch approach ensures consistency without sanding off individuality; honeyed grain and char meet polished spice. A classic, versatile profile makes it a can’t-miss luxury gift and a dependable house pour.

Recognition & Accolades

Recognised internationally for depth and balance:

• Gold Outstanding (98/100) – International Wine & Spirit Competition, 2022
• Gold – San Francisco World Spirits Competition, 2021
• Gold – International Spirits Challenge, 2021
• Gold Medal (93/100) – Beverage Testing Institute / Tastings.com, 2020
• 94/100 – Falstaff
• 92/100 – Whisky Advocate
• 92/100 – Wine Enthusiast

A proven benchmark that over-delivers neat and in timeless cocktails.

Food Pairing

Echo its caramel-vanilla core with smoked brisket, char-seared ribeye or maple-glazed pork belly; richness meets oak and spice. On a board, aged cheddar, smoked gouda and prosciutto pair beautifully with spiced pecans and dried apricots. For dessert, think dark chocolate truffles, pecan pie or crème brûlée—the bourbon’s warm glow lifts every bite.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

Bold yet impeccably poised, Knob Creek 9 Year is an impressive client gift, a memorable host present or a worthy addition to your top shelf—authentic enough for purists, inviting enough for newcomers.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.