When it comes to the ownership of Knob Creek, it is important to delve into the history and background of this iconic Kentucky straight Bourbon whiskey. Knob Creek is indeed owned by Beam Suntory, a renowned spirits company, but it is produced at the Jim Beam distillery in Clermont, Kentucky. This association might lead some to believe that Knob Creek is directly owned by Jim Beam, but the reality is slightly more complex.
The story behind Knob Creek dates back to 1992 when it was introduced as part of the small batch Bourbon range by Booker Noe, the grandson of Jim Beam himself. Booker Noe, a well-respected figure in the whiskey industry, wanted to create a brand that paid homage to the traditions and craftsmanship of Kentucky Bourbon.
Booker Noe’s small batch Bourbon range consisted of four distinct labels: Knob Creek, Booker’s, Baker’s, and Basil Hayden’s. These brands were crafted to showcase the different flavor profiles and aging techniques employed in the art of Bourbon making. Knob Creek, in particular, stood out for its robust flavor and rich, full-bodied character.
While Knob Creek is produced at the Jim Beam distillery, it operates as a separate brand within the Beam Suntory portfolio. This means that while there is a connection to the Jim Beam legacy, Knob Creek maintains its own distinct identity and characteristics.
Jim Beam, founded in 1795 by Jacob Beam and later renamed after his great-grandson James B. Beam, has become one of the most recognizable names in the American whiskey industry. With a rich heritage spanning over two centuries, Jim Beam has established itself as a household name among whiskey enthusiasts.
Beam Suntory, the parent company of Knob Creek, acquired the Jim Beam brand in 2014, further cementing their position as one of the leading spirits companies in the world. This acquisition brought together two iconic brands, each with its own unique history and devoted following.
It is important to note that while Knob Creek is produced at the Jim Beam distillery and shares a connection to the Beam family legacy, it operates as an independent brand under the ownership of Beam Suntory. This allows Knob Creek to maintain its own distinct identity and continue the tradition of producing high-quality Kentucky straight Bourbon whiskey.
Knob Creek has gained a loyal following over the years, attracting whiskey enthusiasts with its rich flavor profile, aged in new, charred American oak barrels to create a smooth and complex taste. Its unique mash bill, combining a higher percentage of rye grain, gives Knob Creek its signature spiciness.
In conclusion, while Knob Creek is produced at the Jim Beam distillery and shares a connection to the Beam family legacy, it is owned by Beam Suntory and operates as an independent brand within their portfolio. This distinction allows Knob Creek to maintain its own individuality while benefiting from the rich tradition and expertise of the Jim Beam distillery.
