Knob Creek releases 21 year old bourbon, oldest distillery expression
James B. Beam Distilling Co. introduces Knob Creek 21 Year Old, the oldest bourbon in the distillery's history. Master distiller Freddie Noe hand-selected barrels that aged over two decades in Kentucky rackhouses, developing deep caramel, oak and char notes bottled at 100 proof.
THE JAMES B. BEAM DISTILLING CO. INTRODUCES KNOB CREEK 21 YEAR OLD, THE OLDEST EXPRESSION IN DISTILLERY HISTORY
Each barrel was hand-selected for its distinctive flavor and balance, resulting in a bourbon as rare and bold in character as it is in age
CLERMONT, Ky., Oct. 28, 2025 — Today, the James B. Beam Distilling Co., home of the The Small Batch Bourbon Collection, marks a historic moment with the release of Knob Creek 21 Year Old, the oldest expression to be released from the distillery and the award-winning Knob Creek portfolio. Discovered at 21 years, this limited-edition bourbon marks a milestone for Knob Creek—an extra-aged whiskey that embodies Knob Creek while delivering a distinctive new expression and flavor experience.
For more than two decades, these barrels rested patiently in our Kentucky rackhouses, weathering changing temperatures and seasons. During this time, the whiskey didn't just age; it evolved, gaining extraordinary depth, color, and character that only 21 years in the barrel can bring. Each was then hand-selected by our master distillers for its remarkable balance and complexity - proof that patience, instinct, and respect for the process can create something truly one of a kind.
"When we first laid this batch to rest, we weren't chasing any specific age statement - we were focused on crafting a great bourbon, just like we always do," said Freddie Noe, eighth generation master distiller. "After I tasted the whiskey, I knew we had something special. After decades in the rackhouse, the liquid developed a richness and balance we knew Knob Creek fans and whiskey enthusiasts would want to try. That's what makes this release special: it's bold, full of character, and embodies what Knob Creek stands for."
Bottled at 100 proof, Knob Creek 21 Year Old is a full-flavored bourbon that reflects our unwavering commitment to pre-Prohibition style craftsmanship. It opens with aromas of seasoned oak, caramelized sugar, and subtle smoke. On the palate, deep caramel and char build alongside hints of fruit and toasted oak, leading to a long, warm finish of toffee and charred wood — a flavor profile shaped by decades of care and expertise.
Arriving just in time for the holiday season, Knob Creek 21 Year Old invites bourbon lovers to savor and share it neat to experience the liquid in its purest form. This limited time offering is presented in a distinguished keepsake box - a tribute to the craft and care behind this release - and is available nationwide for a limited time at a suggested retail price of $249.99 for a 750mL bottle.
