Angel's Envy Rum Cask Rye vs Bulleit Rye: Whiskey Comparison

Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 05:57 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.

Compare Angel’s Envy Rum Cask Rye and Bulleit Rye to find your new favorite.

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

Angel’s Envy Rum Cask Rye vs Bulleit Rye: Comparison

Angel’s Envy Rum Cask Rye: Sweet, smooth with vanilla, maple, and tropical notes. Best enjoyed neat. 50% ABV. Perfect for those seeking a dessert-like, easy-drinking rye with unique rum cask sweetness.

Bulleit Rye: Bold, spicy with rye, mint, and vanilla. Versatile in rocks or cocktails. 45% ABV. Suited for spice lovers and cocktail enthusiasts, offering a classic rye experience with a kick.

Verdict: Angel’s Envy Rum Cask Rye stands out for its exceptional smoothness and dessert-like qualities, appealing to those preferring a sweeter, less traditional rye. Bulleit Rye offers a spicy, versatile option for traditional rye whiskey fans and mixologists, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Rye Whiskey on a Budget

Angel’s Envy Rum Cask Rye: A Sweet and Smooth Rye Adventure

Nose: Vanilla, coconut, banana, baking spice
Palate: Ripe fruity, maple, cinnamon, brown sugar
Finish: Rye spice, plantain
Alcohol content: 100 proof (50% ABV)
How to drink: Neat
Similar to: Woodford Reserve Rye

For those with a sweet tooth, the Angel’s Envy Rum Cask Rye offers a unique and irresistibly smooth rye whiskey experience.

Aromas of tropical sweetness reminiscent of Hawaiian Tropic sunscreen gently mingle with a subtle hint of rye spice on the nose.

The palate is thick and creamy, bursting with flavors of maple syrup, juicy fruits, and vanilla, where the rye spice plays a supportive role.

The finish is smooth and delightful, leaving a lingering taste of plantain, maple syrup, and a whisper of rye spice.

Think of it as a dessert whiskey, akin to cinnamon graham crackers drizzled with maple syrup and a touch of cinnamon spice.

Key points:

Exceptionally smooth and sweet – ideal for those who find traditional rye whiskey too spicy.
Thick and creamy mouthfeel for a luxurious sipping experience.
100 proof without any noticeable heat.
Unique rum cask finish imparts tropical and sweet notes.
Limited rye spice presence might not please all rye whiskey enthusiasts.

Overall, the Angel’s Envy Rum Cask Rye is a delightful option for those seeking a smooth, sweet, and easy-drinking rye whiskey experience. Its unique flavor profile makes it a great choice for sipping neat or enjoying after dinner.

Additional facts:

Finished for 18 months in Caribbean rum casks.
100 proof alcohol content.
Created by Master Distiller Lincoln Henderson.
Currently owned by Bacardi.

Bulleit Rye: A Spicy and Versatile Rye Whiskey

Nose: Mint, cedar, vanilla, rye spice
Palate: Caramel, spearmint, vanilla, rye spice
Finish: Rye spice, oak spice, old leather
Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
Similar to: Knob Creek Rye

Spice enthusiasts, rejoice! Bulleit Rye is a rye whiskey known for its bold and spicy character, thanks to its high rye grain mash bill (95% rye).

On the nose, expect a gentle minty aroma intertwined with cedarwood, vanilla, and a hint of rye spice. The palate starts with a burst of rye spiciness, followed by spearmint, caramel, and a touch of vanilla. The finish is medium to long, with lingering mint notes, a hint of charred oak, and a pleasant warmth.

While some may find the spice level intense, Bulleit Rye remains smooth and easy to drink due to its subtle sweetness. Adding a touch of water or large ice cubes can further tame the spice, making it more approachable for those new to rye whiskey.

Bulleit Rye truly shines in cocktails. Its bold spice adds a welcome kick to various mixes, making it a favorite among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts.

At a glance:

High-rye content (95%) for a pronounced spice character.
Smooth and easy to drink with subtle sweetness.
Versatile – great neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails.
May be too spicy for some (easily toned down with water or ice).
Lacks unique, memorable tasting notes for some drinkers.

Overall, Bulleit Rye is a solid choice for rye whiskey enthusiasts, especially those who enjoy a bold and spicy spirit. Its affordability and versatility make it a great option for both sipping and mixing.

Additional facts:

Aged for an undisclosed period, estimated between 5-6 years.
Matured in heavily charred, new American oak casks, contributing to the spicy notes.
Awarded Double Gold and Gold Medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

What do Angel’s Envy and Bulleit have in common?

They are both crafted at the MGP Distillery in Indiana, where several other rye whiskeys, such as the Whistlepig, Templeton Rye, High West, George Dickel Rye, etc.

The whiskeys are distilled in Indiana and later shipped to be aged.