Coming in at number 4 on the best bourbons under $75 list is another Jim Beam Distillery product, Knob Creek 12 year small batch.  Initially produced as a limited release, the 12 year small batch has joined Knob Creek 9 year as part of the standard Knob Creek small batch collection.  The limited edition of this is the Knob Creek 12 year Cask Strength.  This is the oldest age stated bottle in the testing we did but as you know, age does not always equal better.  However, it is nice to see a 10+ year age stated product so moderately priced and making a comeback.  It is quite rare these days.  The others that come to mind are Eagle Rare and Russell's 10 - both 10 proof points lower and minimum 2 years younger than this though.  

Stats: 12 years old; 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley; 100 proof; $65

A really nice palate to this one.  The age of course lends to an oak forward profile.  As with most Knob Creek, there is also significant pepper on the palate. However, some of the more subtle notes in younger Knob Creek are amped up here - charred brown sugar, vanilla, and even hints of marshmallow.  An all around joy to sip on.  If you like higher age stated products with that oak forward profile, you'll love this.  This is what traditional bourbon was meant to be - aged well, proofed well, and priced well.