Last Updated on: 10th April 2024, 09:12 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between 1792 Small Batch vs Knob Creek 9 Year in this head-to-head comparison and decide which Bourbon is better for You!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
1792 Small Batch vs Knob Creek: Comparison
1792 Small Batch: A bold rye spice blend, intermingled with charred oak and hints of banana and cinnamon, at 94 proof. Appeals to those who favor a spicier, drier bourbon experience.
Knob Creek 9 Year: Delivers a rich tapestry of cherry, vanilla, and oak, with a unique peanut note, at 100 proof. Perfect for bourbon lovers seeking a classic, well-rounded profile with a potent kick.
Verdict: 1792 Small Batch offers a distinctive spicy character for those who appreciate a robust flavor profile. Knob Creek 9 Year, on the other hand, balances sweetness and spice nicely, providing depth and a satisfying finish. Each bourbon presents a unique experience, catering to different preferences within the bourbon community, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top-Sipping Bourbons under $40
1792 Small Batch: Spicy Charm with a Caveat
- Nose: Charred oak, banana, rye spice
- Palate: Cinnamon, oak, banana, ripe fruit
- Finish: Medium-length, cinnamon, pepper, oak
- Alcohol content: 94 proof (47% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Woodford Reserve
1792 Small Batch bourbon hits the nose with smoky campfire embers, sweet banana, tart green apple, and a whisper of rye spice. As you breathe deeper, a creamily earthy complexity emerges.
The first sip promises smooth sailing, but intense cinnamon heats up fast, joined by dry oaky notes. While intriguing, the spice tends to dominate, pushing the banana and fruit whispers into the background, creating a slight imbalance.
The finish warms your palate with lingering cinnamon and oak, enjoyable but medium-length and not particularly memorable. Overall, 1792 is approachable but lacks the depth and balance to leave a lasting impression.
Bonus Facts:
- Once boasted an 8-year age statement, now undisclosed.
- High rye content delivers distinctive spiciness.
- Launched in 1792, the year Kentucky became a state.
- Award winner: Double Gold (2011) and tied Pappy 23 for best bourbon (2012).
Is 1792 for you? If you enjoy spice-forward bourbons with a touch of fruit, it’s worth exploring. However, those seeking complexity and balance might find it falls short.
Knob Creek: Classic Bourbon with a Kick and a Wink
- Nose: Cherry, vanilla, caramel, rye spice, oak
- Palate: Vanilla, oak, cherry, chocolate, peanuts
- Finish: Long, vanilla, banana, baking spices
- Alcohol content: 100 proof (50% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Redemption Bourbon
Spice up your bourbon routine with Knob Creek, a 9-year-old Kentucky charmer. Let’s delve into its secrets:
Nose: Dive into a bold blend of ripe cherries, creamy vanilla, and toasted caramel, all playfully seasoned with a hint of peppery rye.
Palate: Brace yourself for a buttery smooth wave of flavors. Sweet oak, rich chocolate, and lingering cherry dance on your tongue, with a surprise cameo from Jim Beam’s signature nutty peanut note.
Finish: It all comes together in a long, warm finish that leaves you with a satisfied sigh.
Easy Drinking: Don’t be intimidated by the 100-proof boldness. Knob Creek goes down smooth and easy, offering the full experience neat. Unlock subtle floral notes with a few drops of water.
Standing Tall: What makes Knob Creek special? It’s the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, boldly flavored yet smooth as silk. The thick, creamy body gives it an undeniable presence.
Bonus Facts:
- Deep Flavors: Aged 9 years in heavily charred oak barrels for maximum impact.
- Classic Recipe: Made with the same time-tested blend as Jim Beam (75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley).
- Legendary Creator: Masterminded by industry icon Booker Noe, a true bourbon innovator.
Ready to explore Knob Creek? It’s a classic with a twist, sure to leave you grinning.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| 1792 Small Batch | $33 |
| Knob Creek 9 Year | $39 |