Knob Creek Single Barrel vs Wild Turkey Rare Breed

Last Updated on: 10th April 2024, 10:02 pm

Discover the differences between Knob Creek Single Barrel vs Wild Turkey Rare Breed 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

Knob Creek Single Barrel vs Wild Turkey Rare Breed: Comparison

Both Knob Creek Single Barrel and Wild Turkey Rare Breed offer a robust and flavorful bourbon experience, each with its unique characteristics:

• Knob Creek Single Barrel: Delivers a sweet and spicy profile, with a rich buttery mouthfeel and a balanced finish of cinnamon, vanilla, and oak. Its 120-proof provides a warm, yet surprisingly smooth sipping experience, enhanced by adding water. Priced at $53, it’s a premium choice for those who appreciate the nuanced sweetness and complexity of a single-barrel bourbon.
• Wild Turkey Rare Breed: Combines the heat of 116 proof with the sweetness of butterscotch and brown sugar, balanced by oak char and old leather in the finish. Despite its high proof, it remains well-balanced and accessible, offering excellent value at $54 for bourbon lovers seeking a bold yet balanced drink.

Verdict: Both bourbons stand out in their category, offering distinct tasting experiences that cater to different preferences. Whether you lean towards the sweet and spicy charm of Knob Creek Single Barrel or the hot and sweet balance of Wild Turkey Rare Breed, both are excellent choices that promise satisfaction and complexity, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: What’s the Best Single Barrel Bourbon?

Knob Creek Single Barrel: Sweet & Spicy, Single Cask Delight

• Alcohol content: 120 proof (60% ABV)
• How to drink: Add water
• Similar to: Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel

Sweet maple syrup and vanilla aroma greets you, with a hint of warmth.

Buttery mouthfeel, pleasant heat dances on your tongue. Nuts, baking spice, vanilla, oak, and Beam’s signature “peanut” note join the party.

Rich cinnamon, lingering vanilla, and oaky spice in the finish.

Surprisingly approachable, despite the proof: Balanced sweetness and oak charm.

Enjoy neat or with a few drops of water: Water unlocks brown sugar notes and softens the spice.

Don’t be afraid of the 120 proof! This single barrel beauty is smooth and satisfying.

Knob Creek Single Barrel facts:

• Aged at least 9 years in single barrels.
• Hand-picked for optimal flavor.
• Same 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% barley mash as Jim Beam White Label.
• 2012 San Francisco World Spirits Competition Double Gold winner.
• Created by Booker Noe, former Jim Beam Master Distiller.

Wild Turkey Rare Breed: Hot & Sweet, Value Champion

• Alcohol content: 116 proof (58% ABV)
• How to drink: Rocks, Cocktails
• Similar to: Four Roses Single Barrel

Honey, cinnamon, and oak greet your nose. A hint of heat lingers, but it’s not overpowering.

Creamy body, pleasing warmth. Butterscotch, brown sugar, and vanilla dance on your tongue, balanced by oaky char.

Long finish, warm and complex. Vanilla, leather, and signature Wild Turkey oak linger.

Hot, but harmonious: Despite its high proof, Rare Breed strikes a sweet and satisfying balance.

Solid texture, delightful sweetness, oaky spice: This bourbon punches above its class, rivaling pricier options.

Value champion: For your money, Rare Breed is the best Wild Turkey has to offer.

Rare Breed facts:

• Uncut, barrel-proof (around 116 proof).
• No water dilution.
• Blend of 6-8 and 12-year whiskeys.
• 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% barley mash bill.
• 2020 New York International Spirits Competition Gold.
• Owned by Campari Group.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Whiskey	Price
Knob Creek Single Barrel	$53
Wild Turkey Rare Breed	$54