Knob Creek 12 Year is what happens when the Knob Creek philosophy of patience and full proof collides with three additional years of Kentucky oak aging. First released as a limited edition in 2019, demand was so strong that it quickly became a permanent core expression — and the bourbon community understood why. Ranked #2 on Whisky Advocate's Top 20 Whiskies of 2020, Knob Creek 12 Year is one of the most acclaimed age-stated bourbons produced by any major distillery, and arguably the best value 12-year-old bourbon at 100 proof available anywhere.
Aged three years longer than the flagship 9 Year in deeply charred American white oak barrels at the Jim Beam Distillery in Clermont, Kentucky, the 12 Year develops significantly more caramelized wood character, dried fruit complexity, and layered baking spice. Like the 9 Year, it's non-chill filtered — retaining all natural oils for a richer texture and deeper flavor. Bottled at 100 proof, this is a bourbon that stands up to any occasion: neat, on the rocks, or commanding any cocktail.
ABV / Proof
| Distillery |
Jim Beam Distillery — Clermont, Kentucky |
| Type |
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey — Small Batch |
| Age Statement |
12 Years |
| Aging |
Deeply Charred American White Oak Barrels |
| Filtration |
Non-Chill Filtered — Full Natural Oils Retained |
| Proof |
100 Proof |
| ABV |
50% |
| Bottle Size |
750ml |
| Awards |
Whisky Advocate Top 20 Whiskies of 2020 — #2 |
| Country |
United States — Kentucky |
Tasting Notes
Color: Dark amber with a touch of red — deeper than the 9 Year
Nose: Heavy toffee, charred oak undertones, matured tobacco, toasted coconut, dark chocolate, vanilla, and leather
Palate: Bold and spicy — leathered fruits, richer caramel, cinnamon, roasted nuts, dried fruit, charred wood, espresso, and brown sugar. More depth and complexity than the 9 Year
Finish: Long, warm, and smoky — tobacco, dark chocolate, caramelized wood, and lingering spice heat
FAQ
How does the 12 Year compare to Knob Creek 9 Year?
Three additional years of aging brings noticeably more oak influence, richer caramel and dried fruit notes, deeper complexity, and a longer, more developed finish. The 12 Year is darker in color and bolder in character — aimed at drinkers who want more maturity and intensity while keeping the 100 proof signature that defines the Knob Creek range.
Was this a limited release?
Knob Creek 12 Year was initially released as a limited edition in 2019 and became a permanent core expression due to overwhelming demand. It now sits permanently in the Knob Creek lineup as the step-up age statement above the flagship 9 Year.
Why is it ranked #2 by Whisky Advocate?
Whisky Advocate named Knob Creek 12 Year the #2 whiskey of 2020, praising its exceptional balance of age, proof, and flavor at an accessible price point — calling it one of the best value age-stated bourbons available from a major distillery.
Where can I buy Knob Creek 12 Year online?
Available here at Liquor On Broadway — fast, insured shipping nationwide.
