Distillery: A blend including: two straight rye whiskeys (one: 95% rye, 5% barley malt from MGP; two: 80% rye, 20% malted rye from High West) and two straight bourbon whiskeys (one: 75% corn, 21% rye, 4% barley malt from MGP; two: 78% corn, 10% rye, 12% malted barley from a Kentucky distillery).
Proof: 92
Age: NAS, suspected to be 10 years
Utah Price: 125.99
Product Availability: Limited Distribution
High West Bourye has long been known as a unique blend that marries the richness of bourbon with the spicy complexity of rye. The 2024 release continues this tradition, combining straight bourbons and straight ryes of varying ages to create a layered, versatile whiskey. Bottled at a moderate proof, the idea behind Bourye is to highlight the best qualities of both whiskey styles in a single expression.
High West Distillery, based in Park City, Utah, started as a small operation and quickly earned a reputation for blending and sourcing high-quality whiskey from various distilleries. Over the years, it has moved toward greater transparency and a bit more in-house production, though blending remains a core part of its identity. Founded in 2006, High West helped usher in a new era of American craft distilling, and Bourye remains one of its more distinctive offerings.
Tasting Notes
Nose:
On the nose, the 2024 Bourye offers a subtle interplay of sweet and savory aromas. Initial scents of caramel and honey are underscored by a gentle spice—think mild cinnamon and allspice—along with a faint herbal note. A touch of toasted oak and a whisper of dried fruit fill in the background, though nothing comes off as too pronounced or overpowering.
Palate:
The palate is balanced if not overly bold. The bourbon influence provides a rounded sweetness—caramel, vanilla, and maybe a hint of corn—while the rye adds a peppery edge and earthy undertones. A soft, grain-forward character emerges mid-sip, accompanied by just enough oak tannin to keep the sweetness in check. It’s a well-composed blend, but it doesn’t quite explode with complexity. Instead, it’s more of a steady, comfortable ride.
Finish:
The finish is medium in length, leaning toward gentle warmth rather than intense heat. Light oak spice lingers, along with a hint of chocolate and a subtle grassy note that nods again to the rye. It’s pleasing enough, though it won’t leave a lasting impression once you’ve set your glass down.
Overall Impressions
High West Bourye 2024 is a solid entry in the brand’s lineup, offering a smooth, approachable blend that highlights the fundamental strengths of bourbon and rye without pushing the envelope too far. For those who enjoy balanced, easy-sipping American whiskey, it’s a respectable choice. However, it might not captivate drinkers looking for something truly distinctive or boundary-pushing. Ultimately, while it’s a good blend worth trying if you stumble across it, it doesn’t quite earn “must-have” status for serious collectors. It’s enjoyable, but not a showstopper.
