Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon Whiskey

Knob Creek Smoked Maple is unapologetically about maple syrup—a flavored bourbon meant for fans of sweetness and simplicity. It isn’t subtle or layered, nor is it traditional whiskey by bourbon purists. But for those seeking a rich, smoky maple twist—either neat, over ice, or in cocktails—it’s a festive and memorable pour.

🏺 Origins & Style

• A flavored bourbon made by Knob Creek (Beam Suntory). Introduced in 2013, this 90‑proof (45% ABV) bourbon infuses the marque’s small‑batch spirit with natural smoked maple flavor, not through barrel aging but via added syrup. 

• Bottled at a lower proof than the core 9‑year expression, more approachable and intended for casual sipping or mixing.

👃 Aroma (Nose)

• Thick and sweet on the nose: look for intense maple syrup, smoky hickory, and earthy grains. Spiced vanilla and caramel hints follow. 

• Strong maple dominates—expect little nuance beyond the syrupy, smoky aroma.

👅 Palate & Texture

• Flavor: Vivid maple sweetness hits first—like maple syrup over vanilla ice cream. It’s followed by subtle toffee, caramel, and baking spice but with overwhelmingly sugary maple notes. 

• Texture: Dense and syrupy—heavy on sweetness, with moderate oak or whiskey weight overshadowed by flavoring.

🔁 Finish

• Smooth and sweet finish—a lingering sweetness of maple balanced by light smoke and gentle warmth. It carries a short, sugary aftertaste rather than complexity.

🧪 Summary Snapshot

"True maple is almost candied on the nose, punctuated by piney herbs and mesquite smoke. A considerable sweetness bursts across the tongue with a strong smoke and maple mid palate, fading out to a sweet lingering spice." 94 Points, Excellent, Highly Recommended 2016 Ultimate Spirits Challenge

"Whiskey first, flavoring second in this bottle. The alcohol presence comes through early on the nose and palate (it's 90 proof, after all), followed by undercurrents of maple and vanilla. It finishes with flourishes of spice and heat, with a welcome orange-peel note. If you're seeking a quality flavored Bourbon that will stand up to mixing, here it is." Wine Enthusiast 92 Points