I am always on the lookout for new and exciting bottles to add to my collection. Recently, I had the opportunity to try Rebel Yell 100, a wheated bourbon from Lux Row Distillers. With its bold flavor profile and high proof, I was eager to see how it stacked up against other bourbons in its price range.
Table of Contents
Rebel Yell 100 Overview
Rebel Yell 100 is a Kentucky straight wheated bourbon that is produced by Lux Row Distillers. It is a high-proof version of the original Rebel Yell bourbon, which was first introduced in 1936. Rebel Yell 100 is bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV) and is made with a mash bill of 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley.
Product History
Rebel Yell 100 is a relatively new addition to the Rebel Yell family of bourbons, having been introduced in 2018. The original Rebel Yell bourbon was named after the Confederate battle cry and was first produced by the Stitzel-Weller Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky. The brand was later sold to Luxco, which now produces Rebel Yell at its Lux Row Distillers facility in Bardstown, Kentucky.
Rebel Yell 100 is made using the same recipe as the original Rebel Yell bourbon, but with a higher proof. The wheated mash bill gives the bourbon a smooth and mellow flavor profile, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak.
Price Range
Rebel Yell 100 is a mid-range bourbon, with a price point that is slightly higher than the original Rebel Yell bourbon. It typically retails for around $21–$35 per 750-ml bottle, making it a good value for a high-proof wheated bourbon.
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Tasting Notes
Aroma
I opened the bottle of Rebel Yell 100 and immediately noticed a strong aroma of sweet vanilla and caramel. There was also a hint of oak and a subtle floral note.
Flavor
Upon taking my first sip, I was hit with a burst of sweetness. The flavor was dominated by vanilla and caramel, with a slight hint of honey. I also detected a subtle corn flavor in the background, which was pleasant. The mouthfeel was oily and smooth, coating my tongue with a rich, velvety texture.
Finish
The finish was long and warm, with a pleasant burn that lingered in my throat. The sweetness of the vanilla and caramel flavors faded, leaving a subtle oak flavor in its place. There was also a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, which added a nice complexity to the finish.
Rating
Overall, I found Rebel Yell 100 to be a solid bourbon with a pleasant aroma, sweet flavor, and warming finish. While it may not be the most complex bourbon I’ve tried, it is certainly enjoyable and easy to drink. I would give Rebel Yell 100 a rating of 8 out of 10.
Mixing and Pairing
When it comes to enjoying Rebel Yell 100, there are a variety of mixing and pairing options that can enhance your drinking experience. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy this delicious bourbon.
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Best Mixers
While Rebel Yell 100 is delicious on its own, it can also be a great addition to a variety of mixed drinks. Some of my favorite mixers for Rebel Yell 100 include:
- Ginger ale
- Lemonade
- Sweet tea
- Cola
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Cocktail Suggestions
If you’re looking for some cocktail inspiration, here are a few suggestions that I think work particularly well with Rebel Yell 100:
- Whiskey Sour: Combine 2 oz Rebel Yell 100, ¾ oz fresh lemon juice, and ½ oz simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a cherry and orange slice.
- Kentucky Mule: Combine 2 oz Rebel Yell 100, ½ oz lime juice, and ginger beer in a copper mug filled with ice. Stir and garnish with a lime wedge.
- Old Fashioned: Muddle 1 sugar cube, 2 dashes of bitters, and a splash of water in a glass. Add 2 oz Rebel Yell 100 and ice. Stir and garnish with an orange slice and cherry.
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Food Pairings
Rebel Yell 100 pairs well with a variety of foods, making it a great choice for dinner parties or gatherings. Here are a few food pairing suggestions that I think work particularly well:
- Grilled meats: The smoky flavors in grilled meats complement the rich, oaky flavors in Rebel Yell 100.
- Dark chocolate: The sweetness of dark chocolate pairs well with the caramel and vanilla notes in the bourbon.
- Cheese: Aged cheddar or gouda can help bring out the spicy notes in Rebel Yell 100.
Conclusion
Rebel Yell 100 is a solid bourbon that delivers on its promises. It has a rich and complex flavor profile, with notes of caramel, sweet corn, and roasted oak. The viscous mouthfeel and bold, spicy barrel notes make for a satisfying sipping experience.
I would recommend Rebel Yell 100 to anyone who enjoys wheated bourbons and is looking for something with a little extra kick. It’s a great choice for sipping neat, but it also works well in cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan.
Related Posts
Here are some other whiskey reviews that you might enjoy:
- Reviewing Highland Park Fire Edition: This special edition bottling from Highland Park celebrates myths and legends of the Viking age. If you’re a fan of peated whiskey, you’ll want to check this one out.
- Reviewing Teeling 24 Years Old: Teeling Whiskey released this 33-year-old expression last year, which is said to be the “oldest bottling of Irish Single Malt ever released”. If you’re a fan of Irish whiskey, this one is definitely worth trying.
- A closer look at AnCnoc 35 Year Old: AnCnoc’s limited edition 35 year old second release is a must-try for fans of aged Scotch. This review provides a closer look at the liquid and the story behind it.
- A closer look at Dalvve from Swedish Box Distillery: If you’re interested in trying whiskey from outside of Scotland and Ireland, this review of Dalvve from Swedish Box Distillery is a great place to start.
- Weekly Review: Claxton’s Glenrothes 19 Year Old (1997): This review takes a closer look at a single cask bottling from Claxton’s, which is a great option for those who appreciate the unique flavors that come from single cask whiskey.