Emma Jones
Demystifying High-Rye Bourbon Whiskeys
If you have ever dove into the world of whiskey, you probably have come across the term ‘high-rye bourbon’ at least once. It’s a distinctive strain of bourbon characterized by a spicy kick and nuanced flavors brought about by a grain bill that features a higher percentage of rye. Our mission today is to taste, test, and power rank some of the best high-rye bourbon whiskeys on the market, and perhaps help you find your next favorite bottle.
Bulliet Bourbon Frontier Whiskey
When talking about high-rye bourbon, it’s impossible to ignore Bulleit. As one of the more mass-market high-rye bourbons, it offers an excellent introduction to this type of whiskey. Bulleit bourbon is known for its high rye content (approximately 28%), which is a defining character of its flavor. It’s got a nice burn and a complex, rich flavor that doesn’t shy away from boldness. However, the rye doesn’t dominate; instead, it expertly balances with the caramel and vanilla flavors from the corn mash.
Our Take
Starting our tasting with Bulleit was a treat. The rye spice was immediately evident, followed by a sweet caramel finish. It was also surprisingly smooth for a high-rye bourbon. An accessible whiskey with a balanced character, it’s hard not to like Bulleit Bourbon. It’s a solid choice for bourbon enthusiasts looking to explore high-rye whiskies without going too far off the beaten path.
Four Roses Single Barrel
Four Roses Single Barrel bourbon is one of the shining stars of the high-rye style. It boasts up to 35% rye content in the grain bill – one of the highest in this category. This translates to a full-bodied, rich flavor profile that doesn’t hesitate to assert itself in a cocktail but shines brightest when sipped neat.
Our Take
The Four Roses Single Barrel is formidable. It tickles the palate with a peppery tingle and finishes with a warm, long, and satisfying end. The high rye content is in full effect but is well integrated with notes of dark fruit, oak, and a whisper of smoke. For whiskey lovers with a penchant for bold flavors, this is an excellent high-rye choice.
Redemption High-Rye Bourbon
The name says it all. Redemption High-Rye Bourbon is all about showcasing the spice and character that a high-rye grain bill can impart. This bourbon boasts an impressive 36% rye content that gives it a bold spiciness that both challenges and entices the palate.
Our Take
Redemption lived up to its high-rye name. The initial taste was an explosion of rye spice – a real wake-up call for the palate, followed by the rich, vanilla sweetness of the corn mash. It’s an intense ride from start to finish, making Redemption a good choice for whiskey aficionados who appreciate the full-bodied experience that high-rye bourbon delivers.
Conclusion
Whether you’re new to high-rye bourbons or a seasoned fan, there’s a bottle out there for you. The ones we tasted today varied in their rye content and flavor profiles but all shared a distinct character and complexity that made them so captivating. Some, like Bulleit, are mellow and balanced, while others, such as Redemption, truly live up to the ‘high-rye’ billing. The important thing is to enjoy the journey of exploring these bold, spicy bourbons. Who knows, you may just find your next favorite bottle along the way!
I highly recommend checking out this comprehensive list of authentic reviews to find the perfect high-rye bourbon whiskey for your nightcap. The fact that the whiskeys were blind tasted and ranked makes this selection even more trustworthy. With a focus on smoothness, even the most discerning palates are sure to be delighted by the selection of American original whiskeys. Cheers to finding your new favorite!