Knob Creek, 12-Year Bourbon (Kentucky)

Producer Notes: Full proof for full flavor. An honest Pre-Prohibition style bourbon. Dark amber with a touch of red. A nose of heavy toffee with charred undertones, matured tobacco, toasted coconut and dark chocolate. The taste has bold and spicy overtones, leathered fruits, vanilla and caramelized wood. The finish is warm with the smoky char notes remaining for a lingering heat.

Whiskey Advocate, 93 Points: Coca-Cola, rich spice, dark chocolate, roasted walnuts, licorice root, maple syrup, Luxardo cherries, and varnish on the nose. Without water, the palate is chewy and full of puckering tannins; add a few drops to unleash dark chocolate, candied ginger, cooked berries, tea leaf, walnuts in maple syrup, black pepper, and a hint of orange oil. The lengthy finish offers chocolate-covered cherries, black tea leaves, and white pepper. Layered and engaging. Editor's Choice.