Dustin Gandoff
The Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a delicious whiskey to unwind at the end of the day. For many whiskey enthusiasts, Bulleit Rye has long been a go-to option for its unique blend of spicy and sweet flavors. Now, the brand is taking things up a notch with the release of its new 12 Year Old variety.
The Flavor Profile
So what can you expect from this new addition to the Bulleit Rye family? According to the brand’s Master Blender, Eboni Major, the 12 Year Old has a bold and complex flavor profile that’s sure to delight any whiskey lover.
Major notes that the whiskey has a rich, oaky aroma with hints of vanilla and baking spices. On the palate, you’ll pick up on an array of flavors, from sweet caramel to spicy rye and even a touch of smokiness. The finish is long and warm, with a pleasant lingering sweetness that balances out the spiciness.
The Aging Process
One thing that sets the 12 Year Old apart from other Bulleit Rye varieties is its extra aging time. As the name suggests, this whiskey has spent a full 12 years aging in oak barrels, which imparts a deeper and more nuanced flavor.
When whiskey is aged, it absorbs some of the characteristics of the barrel it’s stored in. In the case of Bulleit Rye’s 12 Year Old, this means that the whiskey takes on some of the oak’s natural sweetness and vanilla flavor, which balances out the spiciness of the rye.
Our Thoughts
Of course, the true test of any whiskey is how it tastes in the glass. We were lucky enough to get our hands on a bottle of the new Bulleit Rye 12 Year Old, and we have to say, we were impressed.
The aroma was rich and inviting, and as soon as we took a sip, we could taste the complexity of the flavors. The sweetness and spiciness played off each other perfectly, and the finish was smooth and satisfying. We could easily see ourselves sipping on this whiskey on a chilly fall evening.
The Verdict
All in all, we think that Bulleit Rye’s 12 Year Old is a welcome addition to the brand’s lineup. It offers something a little bit different from the standard Bulleit Rye, and the extra aging time has definitely paid off in terms of flavor. So if you’re a fan of rye whiskey, we highly recommend giving this one a try. Cheers!
