Football season has a way of bringing out the best in us – that mix of strategy, guts, and a little luck that keeps guys coming back year after year. Now, imagine pairing that with a solid pour of bourbon that's as straightforward and strong as a fourth-down call. That's exactly what's happening as Knob Creek teams up again with Eli Manning, the quarterback who knows a thing or two about sticking to his guns under pressure. This isn't just another endorsement; it's a full-on celebration of those bold choices we all make, whether it's drafting a sleeper in fantasy or picking the right bottle for game day.
For anyone who's spent Sundays glued to the screen, juggling lineups and trash-talking buddies, this partnership hits home. Knob Creek, part of the James B. Beam lineup and a name that's been synonymous with real-deal American whiskey for years, is rolling out the next chapter of their Bold Picks campaign. It's all about honoring the confidence it takes to go all-in, much like Eli did during his championship runs. The 2025-2026 season is shaping up to be one where fans get more than just stats – they get inspiration from a legend who's been there.
Image credit: Knob Creek/Eli Manning
At the heart of it all is a special release that's got bourbon fans buzzing: the Knob Creek Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon, tagged as Eli Manning's Bold Pick for the 2026 Batch. This isn't your everyday sip; it's bottled straight from the barrel, no filtering, no watering down, clocking in at full strength to deliver that deep, uncompromised flavor Knob Creek is known for. Eli worked right alongside Freddie Noe, the eighth-generation master distiller who's carrying on a family tradition of making whiskey without cutting corners. Freddie puts it plain: making bourbon like this demands the same kind of resolve you see on the field or in the stillhouse. It's for those moments when you're not backing down, whether that's defending your fantasy pick or savoring a drink that packs a punch.
Eli's take? He calls it a bourbon that doesn't rest on past wins – it's out there, full of taste, turning every glass into something that feels like a victory. And timing couldn't be better; this limited-edition batch hits shelves across the country right as the playoffs ramp up in early 2026. Picture cracking one open for the big games, letting that rich oak and spice notes settle in while you watch the action unfold. It's the kind of thing that elevates a regular viewing party to something memorable, especially if you're the type who appreciates craftsmanship in your drinks as much as in your plays.
But Bold Picks isn't stopping at the bottle. Eli's jumping back in with his own insights, dishing out no-holds-barred predictions and tips to help fans dominate their leagues. From draft strategies that could turn the tide to gameday rituals, he'll be sharing it all on Knob Creek's Instagram page. And for those who like to mix things up, there's Eli's Gameday Old Fashioned – a simple twist using Knob Creek's 9 Year Bourbon. It's easy to whip up: a bit of sugar, bitters, orange peel, and that smooth bourbon over ice. Perfect for kicking off the season or winding down after a nail-biter.
The campaign's reaching fans where they already hang out, too. Think about those spots where football talk never stops – YouTube channels breaking down matchups, Reddit threads debating trades, even shopping sites like Instacart for stocking the fridge or Fanatics for grabbing gear. Knob Creek's popping up there with fun content, influencer takes, and ways to make the whole experience better. It's smart, really; they're not just selling bourbon, they're weaving it into the fabric of how we live and breathe the game.
Then there's the sweepstakes that's got everyone talking – a shot at the ultimate prize for you and your crew. Enter the Bold Picks Sweepstakes, and one winner gets to host a watch party for the championship game at the James B. Beam Distilling Co. down in Clermont, Kentucky. That's you, your fantasy league, or up to 11 pals, soaking in an exclusive Knob Creek setup. No buy-in needed, just head to TheBoldPicksSweepstakes.com before November 1, 2025, if you're 21 or older. And it's not all or nothing; they're giving away daily prizes like Old Fashioned kits to gear up for draft nights. It's a nod to those who put it all on the line, rewarding that same conviction Eli brings to everything.
Knob Creek's story goes back three decades, starting when Booker Noe set out to revive that old-school, pre-Prohibition style of whiskey. He wanted something with real depth, aged long in heavily charred oak barrels to pull out every bit of flavor. That's the foundation for their lineup today, from the classic bourbons to the ryes that have expanded the brand. They kicked off with the straight rye in 2012, then added single barrel selects, and kept building. Recent years saw permanent additions like the 12 Year Old Bourbon, plus limited runs of 15, 18 Year Olds, and even a Bourbon x Rye blend. On the rye side, they've upped the game with a 7 Year Old flagship and a 10 Year Old release. It's all about consistency and pushing boundaries without losing what makes it great.
Behind it all is Suntory Global Spirits, a powerhouse in the drinks world that's all about quality and responsibility. They're the folks crafting icons like Jim Beam and Maker's Mark, plus Japanese gems such as Yamazaki and Hibiki, and Scotch standouts like Laphroaig. With brands spanning tequila, gin, and ready-to-drink options, they've got a global reach – about 6,000 people across nearly 30 countries. Their approach is rooted in values like growing sustainably, innovating boldly, and giving back. It's a company that's investing in a better future, from eco-friendly practices to community support, all while keeping the focus on creating those meaningful moments around a glass.
As the leaves turn and the gridiron calls, this Bold Picks revival reminds us why we love the game – and why a good bourbon can make it even better. Eli Manning's involvement brings that authentic edge, drawing on his experience to connect with fans who value straightforward excellence. Whether you're toasting a fantasy win or just enjoying the ride, Knob Creek's got something that speaks to the heart of it all. For more on the campaign, the whiskeys, or Eli's takes, check out knobcreek.com or follow them on social. Here's to bold choices and the seasons that make them count.
