Bulleit Rye

A distinguished American spirit known for its high rye content and unique character. This carefully made whiskey features a mash bill of 95% rye and 5% malted barley, giving it a bold, spicy profile that has earned praise from both experts and casual drinkers. Tasting Notes: Nose: The aroma is immediately welcoming, featuring a rich blend of spice with undertones of vanilla and oak. The rye's natural spiciness is enhanced by hints of cherry and a touch of citrus, creating a complex and engaging scent. Palate: It delivers a strong and full-bodied flavor. The high rye content results in a distinct spiciness, balanced by a subtle sweetness like caramel and honey. This sweetness is intricately combined with the warmth of vanilla and the depth of oak, creating a harmonious and layered taste. Finish: The finish is long, warm, and remarkably smooth, considering its high rye content. It leaves a lasting impression of spice, accompanied by a gentle sweetness and the lingering essence of oak. Overall impression: It was perfect on the first sip but became less expressive afterward. Definitely superior to another well-known small batch rye. Interesting Facts: Historical Roots: This spirit traces its origins back to the 1830s. It was revived in the late 20th century by a descendant, who aimed to bring back the family's historic recipes. High Rye Mash Bill: The grain composition is among the highest commercially available for rye spirits. This high percentage of rye grain contributes to its distinctively bold and spicy flavor, setting it apart from others. Award-Winning Spirit: It has received numerous awards and commendations for its quality and craftsmanship, highlighting its excellence and broad appeal. Sustainable Practices: There's a commitment to sustainability in its production. Steps have been taken to reduce environmental impact, including local ingredient sourcing and investment in sustainable production methods. Versatility in Cocktails: While enjoyable on its own, its bold flavor also makes it an excellent base for a wide range of mixed drinks. It adds depth and complexity to any cocktail. In summary, this spirit represents a blend of tradition and innovation, offering an experience deeply rooted in American distilling heritage while appealing to modern tastes. Its intricate flavor profile and dedication to quality make it a standout choice for those seeking a premium rye spirit.

This is the second occasion I've evaluated this whisky, the first being a little over two years ago. Reviewing that prior assessment, I observe that my palate has evolved – or the whisky has, which is also possible, though I believe it's my palate. Regardless, I am better equipped to judge this (or any other whisky) with two years of experience than I was then, with two months. I note the price has remained unchanged in that time – a pint cost me $15.49 then, and now. The mash bill consists of 95% rye and 5% barley, it's 90 proof, there's no age statement, and in the glass the color is light copper. NOSE: Initially, there's a mineral note – it doesn't smell like grus, the sand that granite forms when it weathers, but that's what it brings to mind. Next, I detected vegetable leaves, a summer lawn, twigs, moss, mint, and a truly unpleasant note of acrid weeds – thistle, perhaps. MOUTHFEEL: Smooth – I might have said "creamy," but after consideration, I decided smooth is a slightly more accurate description. TASTE: Butter (which surprised me – that's a note I often perceive in bourbon), a subtle cinnamon note, brown sugar, and black pepper. FINISH: Short, starting with sweet tea and ending with weeds. SUMMARY: This isn't a poor whisky, but it's uncomplicated, and the finish, while starting well, concludes poorly (who desires the taste of weeds in their mouth?). Perhaps it's simply that I'm not a rye enthusiast – I'm trying to determine that – but this whisky does not impress me. RATING: My personal rating scale has eight levels from bottom to top, and this one is the fifth, rated 'Good.' That equates to 3.125 stars, 62.5/100, or 6.25/10.

The aroma is not sharp with peppery and minty notes like some other ryes; instead, it's subtle, requiring deep inhales to discern the aromatic qualities. I detect vanilla, rye spice, black pepper, and a faint hint of mint. Further inhalations reveal notes of winter melon and green apple. On the palate, the rye spice and black pepper are immediately noticeable, coating the tongue and filling the back of the throat, with vanilla and honey also being prominent. It's very pleasant. White grapefruit, tart green apple, and of course, oak are also apparent. The flavors linger pleasantly for a short duration, making the mouth salivate in anticipation of the next sip. Overall, for the price of $42.99, I can name at least 10 Canadian ryes that would surpass this offering for considerably less. However, it is not bad at all and is worth keeping in the collection. Nose 3.25/5; Palate 3.25/5; Overall 3.25/5 Repurchase: Yes Type: Daily Drinker/Mixer

Appearance: Pale golden-brown hue. Smell: Subtle aroma. Not much is coming through. Taste: Menthol, peppery rye notes, spearmint, and fir. It reminds me of the taste I often get from many ryes – like an aged book in a library. While that might sound off-putting, it's actually a really pleasing quality. It must be a characteristic unique to rye, as I don't detect it in any other whiskeys. Aftertaste: Lingering, with notes of anise lozenges and additional spice. A curious drink. I'm enjoying this at a hotel bar this evening and enjoyed it enough to get another round. I'm uncertain if I'll purchase a bottle, but I'd certainly have it again.

Aroma: Pine and Mint are prominent, with subtle hints of vanilla and oak. Palate: The aroma translates almost directly, though I wish the flavors were more intense. It's not very complex. Finish: The finish is rather short and the mouthfeel is thin. A suitable whiskey for mixing. I don't believe it holds up well enough on its own for sipping. If you desire rye flavor, I think it's a good and affordable choice for cocktails.

On the nose, I detect a lot of spice, but also a sweet bubblegum scent, similar to Big League Chew. Perhaps it just reminds me of the Old Fashioneds I create with it. When tasting, the sweetness is less pronounced and the herbal spice is amplified but still gentle. A nice entry-level introduction to rye whiskey. Excellent for Old Fashion cocktails.