Closing out the year, Knob Creek has dropped another special edition rye.  Knob Creek Twice Barreled Rye Whiskey takes their fully-matured rye whiskey and adds it to a new charred oak barrel for a short secondary maturation period.

You might remember Jim Beam Double Oak.  That saw the standard white label Jim Beam finished in a new, charred barrel.  Knob Creek Twice Barreled Rye is the second time the distillery has finished its whiskey in a new barrel, but first time for the brand.

Bottled at 100 proof, KC Twice Barreled Rye showcases some red fruit and baking spice on the nose alongside brown sugar and toasted rye grain.  On the palate, the whiskey is rich.  Maple and brown sugar intermingle with waves of rye grain, stewed orchard fruit, and toasted oak.  A squeeze of fresh orange essence is felt on the back palate.  The warm medium-long finish maintains a caramel and oaky note.

While I absolutely adore the bourbon side of Knob Creek, I’ve recently felt its standard rye whiskey was a bit… boring.  The second barrel finish here has breathed new life into the whiskey.  Flavors and aromas are a bit more robust.  More sweetness and oak complexity is most welcome and add up to a more pleasant tasting experience versus the standard rye.  Simply put, for the $45 asking price, I can’t recommend Knob Creek Twice Barreled Rye enough.  8.5/10

Knobcreek.com

Thanks to Knob Creek for the sample.  As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.