After receiving a bottle of the new Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve I sent a note to my friend Dave. He’s always up for adventure, whether sampling Belgian beers or off fishing in Patagonia.

That was a couple weeks ago.

Sorry Dave, couldn’t wait.

Have fun fishing.

The Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve is aged 9 years and comes in at 120 proof.

As I waited, I wondered if there would be a surprise for me after I uncorked the bottle sealed with a black wax. As often happens with me, the waiting and anticipation ends with a short-lived reward.

In the glass the spirit has a darker amber color. My first reaction on the nose was that of cherry, not overwhelming though. I let the glass set for a few minutes before sampling.

The new bourbon started with a hint of creamy caramel and butterscotch. There was quite an assortment of additional flavors following, including the hint of cherry and some cinnamon.

The Knob Creek Single Barrel at 120 proof also delivered robust pepper sensation without being obnoxious. In fact, the finish was a pleasant crescendo to the softer, sweeter opening.

This new bourbon coming in at about $40 from the Jim Beam family of products is available now.

I’m glad to have this product in my cabinet along side my other long-time favorite bourbons. The reward for waiting to sample the new product was both immediate and lasting.

As for my friend Dave, he can tell me about the Patagonia fishing trip. I’ll tell him about the Knob Creek Single Barrel reserve.