Distillery: Midwest Grain Products (MGP)
Proof: 90
Age: NAS
Utah Price: 32.99
Product Availability: General Distribution
Bulleit 95 Rye is a straight rye whiskey known for its spicy profile and high rye content. Made by Bulleit Distilling Co., which operates under the Diageo umbrella, this rye whiskey follows a mash bill consisting of 95% rye and 5% malted barley, setting it apart from many other rye whiskies that contain closer to the minimum 51% rye required to be classified as such. Introduced in 2011, Bulleit 95 Rye has quickly earned a place on shelves and in bars for its mixability and straightforward, robust rye flavor.
The Bulleit brand traces its roots back to the mid-1800s when Augustus Bulleit first crafted a high-rye bourbon recipe. However, it was revived in the late 20th century by his great-great-grandson, Tom Bulleit, who brought both bourbon and rye back under the Bulleit name. The rye is sourced from a third-party distiller (often thought to be MGP in Indiana) known for their expertise in producing rye whiskey. Bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV), Bulleit 95 Rye offers an approachable yet bold expression of rye whiskey that has become a staple in the American whiskey scene.
Tasting Notes
Nose
The nose of Bulleit 95 Rye is pleasantly aromatic, with prominent notes of freshly cracked black pepper, pine, and dill, characteristic of a high-rye whiskey. Subtle undertones of caramel and vanilla emerge, adding a hint of sweetness to the otherwise spice-forward profile. There’s a touch of citrus zest and a faint herbal quality, reminiscent of dried thyme or basil, making for an earthy nose that clearly signals a rye-heavy mash bill.
Palate
On the palate, Bulleit 95 Rye delivers a straightforward and spicy experience, with black pepper and cinnamon hitting right away. The rye spice is complemented by notes of green apple, clove, and a hint of nutmeg. The slight sweetness of caramel and vanilla reappears but takes a backseat to the more dominant spicy and herbal notes. The mouthfeel is medium-bodied, with enough weight to provide substance without being overly rich or viscous.
Finish
The finish is moderately long and leaves a dry, peppery sensation on the tongue. The rye spice lingers, joined by an oaky bitterness that balances the initial sweetness. There’s a touch of menthol and pine, giving the finish a cooling quality that refreshes the palate. Overall, it’s a clean finish, with the spices gradually tapering off rather than overpowering the senses.
Overall Impressions
Bulleit 95 Rye is a solid choice for anyone interested in exploring rye whiskey without a significant financial investment. It’s a straightforward, no-frills rye with a distinct spiciness and a touch of herbal character. While the taste is decent, it doesn’t necessarily reach the complexity of more premium rye offerings. However, it’s perfect for use in cocktails, particularly those that benefit from a bold rye profile, like an Old Fashioned. Its relatively accessible price point adds to its appeal, making it an economical option for those wanting to stock up on a reliable rye whiskey.
In conclusion, Bulleit 95 Rye may not offer the most complex rye experience, but it delivers a solid, enjoyable taste at a reasonable price. It’s a good value for its quality and serves as a practical addition to any whiskey collection, especially for cocktail enthusiasts or those new to rye whiskey.
