Knob Creek Blender’s Edition 01 Bourbon Review

Any time there's a new addition to the Beam lineup, I get a little excited—not necessarily because of what's in the bottle, but because it serves as a reminder of where my bourbon journey started.

Back in college, my friends and I always seemed to have a handle of Jim Beam within arm's reach. It was our go-to pour, and in many ways it became the foundation of my appreciation for bourbon. Since then, I've made a point to try just about every corner of the Beam portfolio, from Old Tub to Little Book. While I've slowed down on chasing every Booker’s release—largely because they've become a bit hit-or-miss for my palate—I still find myself drawn to new expressions whenever they hit the shelf.

That's what brings me to today's review. As the first release in this new series, it's a bottle I've been looking forward to trying from the moment it was announced.

Bourbon Review FAQ's

• Jim Beam Distillery

• 2026

• Age: 10 Years

• Proof: 106

• 77% Corn, 13% Rye, 10% Malted Barley

• MSRP $45

  
  

Nose

Brown Sugar | Baking Spice| Wet Nuts| Medium

Taste

Cherries | Cloves | Custard | Medium

Finish

Char | Vanilla | Agave | Medium

Final Thoughts

Starting with the obvious question: does it taste like Knob Creek? Yes. The familiar peanut note that many people associate with the brand is still present, but I don't think that's the story here in this bourbon review. This blend is doing much more than simply delivering the standard Knob Creek profile.

My guess is that some older stock found its way into this blend, with the 10-year age statement representing the youngest whiskey in the mix. Whether that's true or not, the result is a bourbon that comes across noticeably sweeter than traditional Knob Creek. The tasting notes printed on the bottle are fairly accurate in that regard. That said, the 106 proof still serves as a reminder that you're drinking a high-proof bourbon, keeping the sweetness from becoming overwhelming.

Whether this release is a creative way to move surplus inventory or a carefully planned addition to the lineup isn't particularly important at this price point. I don't think it's going to convince anyone to abandon their love for Knob Creek 12, but that's not really the point. What it does offer is a flavorful, well-balanced pour that delivers a lot of value for the money. If I came across another bottle on the shelf, I wouldn't think twice about picking it up.