Last Updated on: 11th April 2024, 02:46 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between High West Double Rye vs High West Rendezvous Rye in this head-to-head comparison and decide which Rye Whiskey is better for You!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
High West Double Rye vs Rendezvous: Comparison
High West Double Rye: A blend of sweet and spicy, with honeysuckle, clover honey, and cinnamon on the nose, leading to a palate of apple cider and mint. The finish is medium to long, reminiscent of apple pie and rye spice. Perfect for newcomers to rye or those preferring a gentler spice.
High West Rendezvous Rye: This blend brings together fruity and spicy elements, starting with a nose full of fruit and mint, evolving into a palate rich in rye spice and caramel. The finish is long and dominated by caramel and rye spice. Ideal for sipping neat, it appeals to both rye novices and aficionados seeking complexity and depth.
Verdict: Both High West Double Rye and High West Rendezvous Rye offer engaging experiences for different preferences. Double Rye is smooth and approachable, with a moderate spice that welcomes new rye fans. Rendezvous Rye, on the other hand, provides a complex and spicy profile, making it a great choice for those seeking depth in flavor and a smooth finish, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
High West Double Rye: Smooth & Spicy with a Touch of Sweetness (Great for New Rye Fans)
- Alcohol content: 92 proof (46% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Woodford Reserve Rye
Looking for a rye that’s smooth, approachable, and moderately spicy? High West Double Rye might be your match! It’s a good option for those new to rye or who prefer a milder experience compared to some bolder expressions.
Here’s what you get:
- Nose: Subtly sweet with oak and cinnamon – inviting, but not overwhelming.
- Taste: Smooth, buttery texture with initial sweetness, followed by warming rye spice, mint, and cinnamon.
- Finish: Pleasantly smooth with lingering rye spice, baking spices, and brown sugar. A hint of black pepper adds depth without overpowering.
Why you’ll love it:
- Smooth & Approachable: This rye is easy to drink neat, thanks to its smooth texture and balanced spice. Great for those new to the world of rye.
- Moderately Spicy: It offers enough rye spice to be interesting, but not so much that it’s overwhelming for those who prefer milder profiles.
- Touch of Sweetness: The initial sweetness and lingering brown sugar notes make it more approachable and enjoyable for a wider range of palates.
But keep in mind:
- Not Complex: It might not be as complex or unique as some other rye whiskeys, but it still delivers a satisfying experience.
- Moderate Spice: If you’re a seasoned rye enthusiast seeking intense spice, this might not be your holy grail.
High West Double Rye facts:
- Blend of 2 straight rye whiskeys (ages 2-7 years).
- Mash bills: 95% rye/5% malted barley and 80% rye/20% malted barley.
- 90 points from Whisky Advocate.
- Made in Park City, Utah.
Remember: Spice preference is personal! If you’re new to rye or prefer smoother, sweeter options, High West Double Rye could be your gateway drug. But if you crave intense rye heat and complex flavors, explore bolder choices. Cheers!
High West Rendezvous: A Fruity & Spicy Journey (Smooth Enough for Neat Sipping)
- Alcohol content: 100 proof (50% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Rittenhouse Rye
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Calling all rye enthusiasts and smooth whiskey seekers! High West Rendezvous might be your next adventure. This blend offers a complex flavor profile with a focus on fruit, spice, and warmth, making it a great choice for both sipping and exploring new rye territories.
Here’s what you get:
- Nose: Start with a burst of fruity notes like strawberry and cherry, followed by hints of mint, vanilla, and oak.
- Taste: Enjoy a thick and satisfying body with a pleasant initial spice that transitions to caramel and vanilla sweetness.
- Finish: Savor a long and warming finish with lingering rye spice and caramel.
Why you’ll love it:
- Smooth & Approachable: Despite its rye content, it’s smooth enough to enjoy neat, making it great for those new to rye or who prefer milder options.
- Complex & Flavorful: The blend of whiskeys and mash bills creates a unique and interesting flavor profile with layers of fruit, spice, and warmth.
- Great Value: It offers a good balance of quality and price, making it a worthy contender in its category.
But keep in mind:
- Rye-forward: While smooth, it still packs a spicy punch, so be prepared if you’re new to rye.
- Ice carefully: If you prefer ice, use large cubes to minimize dilution and preserve the rich flavors.
High West Rendezvous facts:
- Blend of 3 whiskeys from 2 different distilleries.
- Mash bills vary, with rye content ranging from 53% to 95%.
- Aged between 5 and 19 years.
- Blended and bottled in Utah.
Remember: Taste preference is personal! If you enjoy fruity and spicy whiskeys with a smooth texture and long finish, High West Rendezvous could be your next favorite. But if you’re new to rye or prefer mellower options, explore other paths. Cheers!
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| High West Double Rye | $38 |
| High West Rendezvous Rye | $70 |