Bulleit 95 Rye
With Bulleit, Diageo presents whiskies with the rough image of the Wild West. In addition to two bourbons, the distillery, which as far as we know now actually distils itself, also offers a rye. In this case, the 95 on the label refers to the rye content of the mash bill, which is a whopping 95%. Unusually high, as you often get the "barely legal" rye with 51% rye.
Tasting Notes
Nose
On the nose, we find a very bourbon-like profile with apricots, oranges and caramel. Behind this, the typical rye spice comes to the fore. We think of muffins with dark chocolate. All in all, very pleasant, velvety and spicy with a hint of pepper.
Palate
The taste is also a mixture of sweet and savoury. Typically American, we have pancakes with maple syrup and chocolate-covered sultanas on the tongue. Again velvety and caramel-sweet, Bulleit Rye also changes in the mouth to spicy rye notes. These are joined by a mixture of dried herbs and brown sugar. Typically BBQ, there is a hint of oak in the finish.
Finish
The medium-long finish pleasantly continues the spiciness of the rye. Further light oak tones are accompanied by herbs and cloves.
Thoughts
Marcel 73/100
Bulleit 95 Rye is an uncomplicated pleasure with a rugged charm and a touch of humor – perfect when you just want to enjoy an honest whiskey without any fuss. It doesn’t surprise you, but it doesn’t disappoint either, making it a great fit for a relaxed evening with friends.
Sascha 77/100
The Bulleit 95 Rye impresses with a solid balance between sweet bourbon notes and spicy rye character, while maintaining a clear and approachable structure. For a rye with such a high rye content, it delivers a well-rounded profile that’s especially suitable for beginners and straightforward tastings.
Value for Money: Good
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71/100Frequently Asked Questions
What does the high rye content of 95% in Bulleit 95 Rye mean?
The 95% rye content in the mash bill is unusually high and results in a pronounced, spicy rye character. Compared to typical rye whiskeys that contain at least 51% rye, Bulleit 95 Rye offers more intense peppery and herbal notes.
How does Bulleit 95 Rye differ in taste from classic bourbons?
Although Bulleit 95 Rye shows typical bourbon aromas on the nose, such as apricot and caramel, the high rye content brings spicy, peppery, and herbal nuances. On the palate, sweetness combines with spicy rye notes and finishes with a slightly woody, BBQ-like character.
Why does Bulleit 95 Rye have no age statement on the label?
Bulleit 95 Rye is bottled without an age statement (No Age Statement), meaning the exact maturation period is not disclosed. This allows the distillery to blend different vintages to ensure a consistent flavor and style.