Rye whiskey is most similar in taste to bourbon. There is a notable spiciness and slightly bitter flavor to it that is due to the natural flavors of rye. It makes for the most interesting whiskey that is distinct from all the other styles. Buy it here (Basil Hayden) Buy it here (Dan Murphy’s) Buy it here (Liquorland) Westward Whiskey Original Single Malt | Image: Westward Whiskey Things to Consider for American Whiskey Knob Creek 12 Year Bourbon: The same strength and formula as the original, this whiskey was a 2020 release. It is aged for 12 years, which adds to its oaky flavor.

Finally, and most importantly in my estimation, is character. Part of a whiskey journey is discovering that different distilleries produce bourbons that have a distinct “profile” or set of aromas and flavors. Someone learning about bourbon may realize they enjoy Maker’s Mark more than Four Roses, and then realize that is due to the softer mouthfeel of the former, and then ask themselves “why is it like this?” A bit of Googling will point toward a wheated mash bill, and the different flavors that imparts relative to a high rye mash bill. This may sound elementary to the more experienced drinkers in the audience, but please remember that we all start somewhere.Outside of Rare Breed, the Wild Turkey portfolio is a veritable buffet of bourbon flavours. The Master Keep One is an acclaimed release delivers rich and nostalgia-inducing aromas of sweet honey and brown spice, which come courtesy of a delicate toasted and charred oak. Meanwhile, the Longbranch collection offered a taste of sweet and smoky, with the addition of mesquite charcoal to the filtration process. Knob Creek can be a great choice for those who are just starting to explore whiskey. Its smooth and balanced flavor profile, along with its approachable and easy-drinking nature, make it a popular choice for those who are new to whiskey. Can you drink bourbon in the summer?

Rye whiskey was very popular during colonial times, especially in the Northeast. However, Prohibition damaged the industry and only a few distilleries continued production after it was repealed. Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve Bourbon: The master distiller hand-selects barrels deemed to hold "exceptional" whiskey for this 120-proof bourbon. It's considered the best of Knob Creek's bourbon. In my opinion, those looking to get an upgraded Jim Beam experience would do well to seek out the entry-level nine year old expression from Knob Creek. What’s so appealing about this bottling? A few things… This wide market ensures that almost everyone will find a brand or style that they prefer. When asked, every whiskey connoisseur has a pointed opinion on which is the best whiskey. Time sleeping in wood gives bourbon flavors that don’t emanate from the distillation process. The longer the liquid spends aging, the more impact the wood has on the resulting whiskey. But to be called bourbon, there is no requirement for time in the barrel. To be called "straight bourbon" the expression must be two years old. If the whiskey is under four years the bottle must carry an age statement. So, if a bourbon carries no age statement, you know each component used in the blending spent at least four years in a barrel.

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According to a 1964 act of Congress, bourbon must have a mash bill of at least 51 percent corn, with other grain whiskeys comprising the remainder. This straight whiskey must be distilled at 160 proof (80 percent ABV) or less. It is often bottled between 80 and 120 proof.