Overview
Knob Creek is a premium bourbon and rye brand from the Beam family of whiskeys. It is part of the Kentucky small batch bourbon tradition associated with James B. Beam Distilling Co. and is known for bold flavor, higher proof, and a mature oak-forward profile.
The brand appeals to drinkers who want a fuller-bodied step up from standard bourbon while staying within the classic Beam flavor family. Knob Creek is especially important because it helped define the modern premium bourbon category.
Brand History
Knob Creek was introduced as part of Jim Beam’s small batch bourbon collection, a group of premium whiskeys that helped reintroduce older, more flavorful bourbon to modern drinkers. The brand name references Knob Creek, a place associated with Abraham Lincoln’s Kentucky childhood.
Over time, Knob Creek expanded from bourbon into rye whiskey, single barrel selections, higher-proof offerings, and age-stated releases. It remains one of the most reliable premium labels in the Beam portfolio.
Who Owns the Brand?
Knob Creek is owned by Suntory Global Spirits as part of the James B. Beam Distilling Co. whiskey portfolio.
Producing Distillery
Knob Creek is produced within the James B. Beam Distilling Co. system in Kentucky. The Clermont campus is the primary Beam visitor and brand home.
Core Products
Core products include Knob Creek 9 Year Bourbon, Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve, Knob Creek Rye, and Knob Creek Single Barrel Rye. Older and higher-proof variants may appear depending on market and release cycle.
Limited Releases
Limited and specialty releases have included older age-stated bourbons, barrel-strength selections, store picks, and anniversary-style releases. Availability changes by year and market.
Mash Bill and Production Notes
Knob Creek Bourbon uses the Beam bourbon production tradition, while Knob Creek Rye uses a rye whiskey recipe. Exact mash bills are not always publicly emphasized by the brand, so expression-specific details should be verified before publication.
Availability
Knob Creek 9 Year Bourbon and Knob Creek Rye are broadly available in many U.S. markets. Single barrel and limited releases vary by retailer and region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes Knob Creek?
Knob Creek is made by James B. Beam Distilling Co.
Who owns Knob Creek?
Suntory Global Spirits owns Knob Creek.
Is Knob Creek bourbon?
Knob Creek is best known for bourbon, but the lineup also includes rye whiskey.
What is the standard Knob Creek bourbon?
Knob Creek 9 Year Bourbon is the brand’s signature expression.