As a whiskey enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for new and exciting bottles to try. Recently, I had the opportunity to sample the Bulleit Rye 12 Year Old, and I have to say, I was thoroughly impressed. This whiskey is a step up from the standard Bulleit Rye, with a more complex flavor profile and a higher price tag to match. While it may be a bit pricier than the standard Bulleit Rye, I believe the extra cost is well worth it for the added depth and complexity of this aged whiskey.

Bulleit Rye 12 Year Old Overview

This particular whiskey is known for its high rye content, which can make it tricky to produce. However, the master blender at Bulleit, Andrew Mackay, has managed to create a balanced and flavorful whiskey.

Product History

Bulleit Rye 12 Year Old is a relatively new addition to the Bulleit lineup. It was first introduced in 2019 and has quickly gained popularity among whiskey lovers. The whiskey is made using a mash bill of 95% rye and 5% malted barley, which gives it a spicy and complex flavor profile.

One interesting fact about Bulleit Rye 12 Year Old is that it is distilled at MGP in Indiana, which is a common practice among many whiskey brands. However, Bulleit has been transparent about this fact and has not tried to hide it from consumers.

Price Range

At around $50 per bottle, Bulleit Rye 12 Year Old is reasonably priced for a 12-year-old whiskey. This makes it accessible to a wide range of consumers, from whiskey connoisseurs to casual drinkers.

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Tasting Notes

Aroma

The aroma of Bulleit Rye 12 Year Old is rich and bright. I detect notes of honey, licorice, and fruit, which are typical of a well-aged whiskey. There is also a hint of spice and cocoa, which I attribute to the high rye content. The aroma is well-balanced and inviting.

Flavor

The flavor of Bulleit Rye 12 Year Old is bold and robust. The high rye content is immediately apparent, with a burst of spicy and peppery notes. This is followed by a rich and creamy sweetness, with flavors of brown sugar, toffee, and vanilla. The oak notes are also present, adding depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Overall, the flavor is well-balanced and satisfying.

Finish

The finish of Bulleit Rye 12 Year Old is long and smooth. The spicy and peppery notes linger on the tongue but are balanced by the sweetness of the caramel and vanilla flavors. The oak notes also make a final appearance, adding a touch of bitterness and complexity. The finish is satisfying and well-rounded.

Rating

Overall, I would rate Bulleit Rye 12 Year Old 8.5 out of 10. The high rye content gives it a unique and bold flavor profile, while the aging process has added depth and complexity. The aroma, flavor, and finish are all well-balanced and satisfying. I would highly recommend this whiskey to anyone who enjoys a spicy and robust rye whiskey.

Mixing and Pairing

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Best Mixers

When it comes to mixing Bulleit Rye 12 Year Old, it’s important to choose mixers that complement its bold, spicy flavor. Some of the best mixers for this whiskey include:

• Ginger ale: The spiciness of the rye pairs well with the sharpness of ginger ale, making for a refreshing and flavorful drink.
• Sweet vermouth: A classic Manhattan cocktail calls for sweet vermouth, which adds a touch of sweetness to the rye’s spiciness.
• Lemon juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the whiskey’s flavors, making it a great addition to a classic whiskey sour.

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Cocktail Suggestions

Bulleit Rye 12 Year Old is a versatile whiskey that can be used in a variety of cocktails. Here are a few cocktail suggestions to try:

• Manhattan: Combine 2 oz. of Bulleit Rye 12 Year Old, 1 oz. of sweet vermouth and a dash of bitters in a mixing glass with ice. Stir until well chilled, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a cherry.
• Old Fashioned: Muddle a sugar cube, a few dashes of bitters, and a splash of water in a rocks glass. Add ice and 2 oz. of Bulleit Rye 12 Year Old, and stir until well chilled. Garnish with an orange twist.
• Whiskey Sour: Combine 2 oz. of Bulleit Rye 12 Year Old, 3/4 oz. of fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 oz. of simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake until well chilled, then strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with a cherry and an orange slice.

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Food Pairings

Bulleit Rye 12 Year Old’s bold, spicy flavor pairs well with a variety of foods. Here are a few food pairing suggestions:

• Barbecue: The smoky, spicy flavors of barbecue are a great match for the bold flavors of this rye whiskey. Try pairing it with pulled pork or smoked brisket.
• Cheese: A sharp cheddar or blue cheese can stand up to the whiskey’s spicy flavor, making for a delicious pairing.
• Dark chocolate: The sweetness of dark chocolate can help balance out the rye’s spiciness, making for a decadent dessert pairing.

Conclusion

In my opinion, the Bulleit Rye 12 Year Old is an exceptional whiskey that is definitely worth trying. It has a high rye percentage, which gives it a unique flavor profile that is both spicy and sweet. The 12 years of aging in charred oak barrels add a smoothness and complexity that make it enjoyable to sip on its own or in a cocktail.

I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys good rye whiskey.

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Here are some other whiskey reviews you might be interested in. I hope you find these reviews helpful in your whiskey exploration journey!

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• Weekly Review: Claxton’s Glentauchers 18 Years Old (1996): A review of Claxton’s Glentauchers 18 Years Old whiskey.
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