Are you a bourbon drinker who is trying to decide between Knob Creek and Bulleit Bourbon? Both are highly respected bourbon brands with unique flavors and a serious cult following. In this article, we will compare Knob Creek vs Bulleit Bourbon to help you make an informed decision on which one is right for you.

History of Knob Creek and Bulleit Bourbon

photo credit: www.knobcreek.com

Knob Creek’s History

Knob Creek is a brand of Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey that was introduced in 1992. It is named after the creek that runs through Abraham Lincoln’s childhood home in Hodgenville, Kentucky. The brand was created by Booker Noe, who was the master distiller for Jim Beam Brands for over 40 years. The bourbon is made from a mash bill that contains 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley. It is aged for a minimum of nine years in charred American oak barrels, which gives it a deep amber color and a rich, complex flavor.

Knob Creek is known for its high alcohol content, which is 50% ABV (alcohol by volume). This makes it a popular choice among bourbon enthusiasts who enjoy a strong, full-bodied whiskey. The brand has won numerous awards over the years, including a gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2019.

photo credit: www.bulleit.com

Bulleit Bourbon’s History

Bulleit Bourbon is a brand of Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey that was founded by Augustus Bulleit in the 1830s. However, the brand disappeared from the market for almost 150 years until it was revived by Tom Bulleit, Augustus’ great-great-grandson, in 1987. The bourbon is made from a mash bill that contains 68% corn, 28% rye, and 4% malted barley. It is aged for a minimum of six years in charred American oak barrels, which gives it a smooth, mellow flavor.

Bulleit Bourbon is known for its high rye content, which gives it a spicy, peppery flavor. It has a lower alcohol content than Knob Creek, at 45% ABV, which makes it a good choice for those who prefer a lighter, more approachable whiskey. The brand has won several awards over the years, including a gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2018.

Production Process

In this section, we will take a closer look at the production processes of Knob Creek and Bulleit Bourbon.

Knob Creek’s Production Process

Knob Creek is a small-batch bourbon that is made using traditional methods. The production process starts with the selection of the finest grains, which are then milled and mixed with limestone-filtered water. The resulting mash is then cooked and fermented using a strain of yeast that has been carefully selected for its unique flavor profile.

Once the fermentation process is complete, the mash is distilled in copper pot stills. The resulting spirit is then aged in charred oak barrels for a minimum of nine years. During the aging process, the bourbon develops its distinctive flavor and aroma, as well as its characteristic amber color.

Bulleit Bourbon’s Production Process

Bulleit Bourbon is made using a unique blend of corn, rye, and barley. The grains are milled and mixed with water to create a mash, which is then cooked and fermented using a proprietary strain of yeast. The fermented mash is then distilled in column stills, which allows for a higher alcohol content and a lighter flavor profile.

After distillation, the bourbon is aged in charred American oak barrels for a minimum of six years. The aging process gives the bourbon its distinctive flavor and color, as well as its smooth finish.

Taste Comparison

When it comes to taste, Knob Creek and Bulleit Bourbon have distinct differences. Knob Creek has a mash bill that includes 75 percent corn, with the remainder nearly evenly split between rye and malted barley. On the other hand, Bulleit’s mash bill contains 68 percent corn, with only 4 percent malted barley. This difference in mash bill results in a difference in taste between the two bourbons.

Knob Creek has a richer, fuller taste with a strong oak flavor. It also has a higher alcohol content of 50 percent ABV, which contributes to its bold taste. The rye and barley in the mash bill give it a spicy kick that lingers on the tongue. The finish is long and satisfying, with notes of caramel and vanilla.

Bulleit Bourbon, on the other hand, has a lighter taste with a more pronounced rye flavor. It has a slightly lower alcohol content of 45 percent ABV, which makes it smoother and easier to drink. The taste is spicy and sweet, with notes of cinnamon and nutmeg. The finish is shorter than Knob Creek, but still satisfying with a hint of vanilla.

Price Comparison

Knob Creek has a slightly higher price point than Bulleit Bourbon. A 750ml bottle of Knob Creek Bourbon can cost around $30 to $40, while a 750ml bottle of Bulleit Bourbon can cost around $25 to $35. However, the price difference is not significant enough to make a major impact on your decision.

If you are on a tight budget, Bulleit Bourbon may be a better choice for you. It is a great value for the price and offers a smooth, flavorful taste. On the other hand, if you are willing to spend a little extra money for a more complex and nuanced flavor, then Knob Creek is worth the investment.

Conclusion

Both Knob Creek and Bulleit Bourbon are excellent choices for bourbon lovers. They are both high-quality bourbons with distinct flavors and aromas. If you are looking for a bourbon with a higher rye content, then Knob Creek is the way to go. It has a bold, spicy flavor with a long finish. On the other hand, if you prefer a bourbon with a sweeter taste, then Bulleit Bourbon is a great option. It has a smooth, mellow flavor with a hint of vanilla and caramel.

Related Posts

If you’re a bourbon enthusiast, you’re likely interested in exploring different brands and types of bourbon. Here are some related posts that may interest you:

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