Bulleit Rye

Bulleit Rye is a distinguished American whiskey that stands out in the world of spirits for its high rye content and distinctive character. This meticulously crafted whiskey boasts a mash bill of 95% rye and 5% malted barley, a composition that endows Bulleit Rye with its bold, spicy profile that has garnered acclaim among connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. Tasting Notes: Nose: The aroma of Bulleit Rye is immediately inviting, marked by a rich tapestry of spice with undercurrents of vanilla and oak. The rye's inherent spiciness is complemented by hints of cherry and a touch of citrus, creating a complex and engaging olfactory experience. Palate: On the palate, Bulleit Rye delivers a robust and full-bodied flavor. The high rye content manifests in a vivid spiciness, balanced by a subtle sweetness reminiscent of caramel and honey. This sweetness is intricately woven with the warmth of vanilla and the depth of oak, resulting in a harmonious and layered taste profile. Finish: The finish of Bulleit Rye is long, warm, and remarkably smooth, considering its rye dominance. It leaves a lasting impression of spice, complemented by a gentle sweetness and the lingering essence of oak. Overall impression: It was perfect on a 1st sip but then became less expressive. Definitely better than Four Roses Small Batch. Interesting Facts about Bulleit Rye: Historical Roots: Bulleit Rye is part of Bulleit Distilling Co., which traces its origins back to the 1830s. Founded by Augustus Bulleit, the company was reborn in the late 20th century by his great-great-grandson, Tom Bulleit, who sought to revive the family's historic recipes. High Rye Mash Bill: The mash bill of Bulleit Rye is one of the highest in the industry for rye whiskeys available commercially. This high percentage of rye grain contributes to its distinctively bold and spicy flavor profile, setting it apart from other whiskeys. Award-Winning Spirit: Bulleit Rye has been honored with numerous awards and accolades for its quality and craftsmanship. Its recognition in international spirit competitions underscores the whiskey's excellence and appeal to a global audience. Sustainable Practices: Bulleit has shown a commitment to sustainability in its distilling processes. The company has taken steps to reduce its environmental impact, including sourcing ingredients locally where possible and investing in sustainable production methods. Versatility in Cocktails: While Bulleit Rye is a pleasure to sip neat or on the rocks, its bold flavor also makes it an excellent base for a wide range of cocktails. From a classic Manhattan to a rye Old Fashioned, it adds depth and complexity to any drink. In conclusion, Bulleit Rye represents a bridge between tradition and innovation, offering a whiskey experience that is both deeply rooted in American distilling heritage and appealing to modern palates. Its intricate flavor profile and commitment to quality make it a standout selection for those seeking a premium rye whiskey.

This is the second time I've reviewed this whisky, the first being a bit more than two years ago. Looking over that previous review I see that my palate has changed - or the whisky has, which might also be the case, though I suspect it's my palate. At any rate, I'm better qualified to evaluate this (or any other whisky) with two years experience than I was then, with two months. I see the price hasn't changed a penny in that time - a pint cost me $15.49 then, and now. The mash bill is 95% rye and 5% barley, it's 90 proof, there's no age statement, and in the glass the color is light copper. NOSE: First there's a mineral note - it doesn't smell like grus, the sand that granite forms when it weathers, but that's what it makes me think of. Next I got vegetable leaves, a summer lawn, twigs, moss, mint, and a really unpleasant note of acrid weeds - thistle, perhaps. MOUTHFEEL: Smooth - I could have said "creamy," but after evaluating it I decided smooth is a slightly better description. TASTE: Butter (which surprised me - that's a note I get fairly often from bourbon), a slight cinnamon note, brown sugar, and black pepper. FINISH: Short, beginning with sweet tea and ending with weeds. SUMMARY: This isn't bad whisky, but it's simple and the finish, while e starting well, ends badly (who wants to have the taste of weeds in his mouth?). Perhaps it's just that I'm not a rye guy - I'm trying to find that out - but this whisky doesn't impress me. RATING: My hick rating scale has eight levels from bottom to top, and this one is the fifth, Good. That translates to 3.125 stars, 62.5/100, or 6.25/10.

The nose isn't sharp with peppery and minty notes like other ryes, but rather subtle with deep inhales needed to pick out aromatic notes. I pick up vanilla, rye spice, black pepper, and a hint of mint. Further wafts bring out notes of winter melon and green apple. On the palate the rye spice and black pepper become immediately apparent coating the tongue and filling the back of the throat with vanilla and honey also prevalent. Very pleasant. White grapefruit, tart green apple and of course oak are also apparent. The flavors linger pleasantly for a short time but make the mouth salivate in anticipation of the next sip. Overall, for the price of $42.99 I can think of at least 10 Canadian ryes that would dominate this offering for a lot less. However, it is not at all bad, and worthy of keeping in the collection. Nose 3.25/5; Palate 3.25/5; Overall 3.25/5 Repurchase: Yes Type: Daily Drinker/Mixer

Color: Light golden copper Nose: Light nose. Not getting a lot from it. Palate: Mint, Rye spice, wintergreen and pine. I'm getting a similar flavor that I get from most of the Rye I have had — an old library book. Sounds bad, but it's a really good profile characteristic. Must be a trait specific to rye, because I don't get it from any other type of whiskey. Finish: Medium with licorice cough drops and more spice. Interesting pour. I'm having this a hotel bar tonight, and I liked it enough to order a second round. I'm not sure if I will buy it, but I would definitely drink it again.

Nose: Pine and Mint are the two big things that come through. Vanilla and oak take a back seat but are slightky there. Palate: Nose translates almost identically, I do wish the flavors were a little more full. Not too complex. Finish: Fairly short and mouthfeel is thin. A decent mixer whisky. I dont think it stands up well enough in its own to sip. If you want the rye flavor i think its good and cheap enough for cocktails.

On the nose I’m getting a lot of spice but for some reason I’m also getting a sweet bubble gum smell, like Big League Chew. Could be it’s just reminding of the Old Fashions I make with it. When tasting, the sweetness is more subdued and the herbal spice is ramped up but still soft. A nice beginner introduction to rye whiskey. Fantastic for Old Fashion cocktails.