Knob Creek Single Barrel Select, Kelly Liquors store pick

This store pick from Kelly Liquors in Albuquerque is 120 proof, just over 9 years old, and cost $56.99. Its color is a deep copper. The mash bill is 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% sprouted barley. NOSE: Primarily honey, then oak, butter, caramel, a hint of barrel char, autumn leaves, earthiness, sweet corn, a touch of cinnamon, and pecan pie. MOUTHFEEL: Viscous, oily, buttery. TASTE: Honey, butter, cinnamon, black pepper, sweet corn, and brown sugar. FINISH: A very pronounced oak note, almost too much, followed by black pepper, butter, and barrel char. It's a lengthy finish that saturates the mouth. SUMMARY: While not as intricate as anticipated, this whisky is exceptional. The aromas and flavors are profound, dark, and potent, well-supported by the high proof. This might be my all-time favorite whisky, rivaling Balcones Texas Pot Still Bourbon. As a store pick, it's not a regular purchase, and it's pricier than usual, but if it were a standard offering within my budget, I'd repurchase it consistently. RATING: Outstanding = 5 stars = 100/100 = 10/10