Notes: This is a new product for Bulleit, who is widely known (at least in bourbon and spirit circles) for their bourbon.The bourbon has one of the highest percentages of rye in the industry, at  whooping 28%. Rye is the grain that gives you a nice sweet/sour, spicy taste in bourbon.

This whiskey is produced at the Bulleit Distillery in Lawrenceburg (also home to Wild Turkey Whiskies – both bourbon and rye). The company was recently acquired by Diageo and they are keeping Tom Bulleit and his delightful daughter Hollis on as  brand ambassadors.

Appearance: Deep yellow gold/amber color like the highest grade of maple syrup. Beautiful clarity and sheen/brightness to the whiskey. Nice edge line on the glass when you swirl it, smooth layer of whiskey on swirling with scalloped edges rather than legs developing.

First Impression: Rye, lots of rye, lovely bouquet, allspice, anise, fruity spiciness, I’d wear this if I didn’t think I might get arrested- it smells that good.

Taste: Tasty, spicy, stuff if a touch vanilla (both as a taste and a commentary) Nice light to medium body and mouth feel with a spicy sweetness. Sort of a mulling spices (cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg) potpouri, with vanilla, grain, leather and a slight touch of tobacco. That all being said it is a bit light, sweet, and not as complex as some.

Drinks: Rye is, of course, the proper whiskey for a Manhattan. Bourbon was later substituted as rye was on the brink of extinction for a number of years until recently, but rye was the original ingredient. This rye is a bit more like a bourbon and less challenging than some ryes out there.

Cigars: Works well with any of the Fuente Hemingway series or a vintage Rocky Patel (the 1990 or 1992).

Bottle: Basic clear flask-type shape (the kind that fits and rides well in saddlebags/messenger bags or vests. Name and type of whiskey is pressed into the glass. Distinguished from the bourbon by a green label (bourbon label is dark red). Old-style script is printed on the label with three colors. Simple layout on scalloped edged rectangular label gives it an antique feel – seems like it came straight off a press and slapped on by hand. Real cork closure gives it a both authentic and upscale feel -more than can be said about its competitors screwcaps in that price range.

Final Thoughts: It will definitely appeal to some as it is a very smooth, full of smooth rye spice and easy to drink. . . For me however it lacks a certain punch and is not as complex as I would like. That being said I can still recommend it as a very nice rye – just at the shallower , less spicy and assertive end of the spectrum.

Web site: http://www.bulleitbourbon.com

Web page is for the bourbon- there is no mention of the rye (yet anyway). Somewhat light on details and pictures but a comprehensive history and background for the bourbon.