Bulleit Rye vs High West Double Rye: Whiskey Comparison

Last Updated on: 11th April 2024, 03:20 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 Bulleit Rye vs High West Double Rye in this in-depth 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

Bulleit Rye vs High West Double Rye: Comparison

Bulleit Rye: Offers a spicy yet smooth experience with its high rye content. The nose presents mint and vanilla, leading to a palate rich in caramel and spearmint, finishing with a touch of old leather. It’s a solid choice for those seeking a spicy kick in their whiskey, perfect for both sipping on the rocks and mixing into cocktails.

High West Double Rye: A blend that balances sweetness with spice, starting with aromas of oak and cinnamon, moving into a palate of honey, apple cider, and mint, and ending with a satisfying finish of apple pie and rye spice. It’s versatile, enjoyable both neat and as a cocktail base, offering a unique twist with its blend of young and aged ryes.

Verdict: Both Bulleit Rye and High West Double Rye provide distinct takes on the rye whiskey category, with Bulleit leaning more towards traditional rye lovers and High West offering a sweeter, more complex profile, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Best Budget Rye Whiskeys

Bulleit Rye: Spicy Kick with a Smooth Finish

Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
Similar to: Woodford Rye

Calling all rye fans! Bulleit Rye packs a punchy spice thanks to its 95% rye mash bill, but balances it with a surprisingly smooth finish.

What’s in the glass?

Nose: Gentle mint, followed by cedar wood, vanilla, and a hint of that signature rye spice.
Taste: Bold rye spice upfront, softened by subtle spearmint, caramel, and a touch of vanilla.
Finish: Medium to long, pleasantly warm, with lingering mint and a hint of oak char.

Good stuff?

Absolutely! It’s affordable, reliable, and lacks any weird flavors.
Bold and spicy? Yes, but it’s also smooth and sweet, making it easy to sip neat.
Need it tamer? Large ice cubes can help, but it truly shines in cocktails, adding a spicy kick to your mixes.

Not a flavor bomb, but a solid choice:

Bulleit Rye might not leave you with an unforgettable taste explosion, but it’s a dependable high-rye whiskey for mixing drinks.
It doesn’t carry an age statement, but expect 5-6 years of aging in charred oak casks.
Fun fact: Bulleit doesn’t craft it themselves, but sources it from MGP of Indiana (home to other Rye favorites like Templeton and Whistlepig).

Ready for a spicy rye adventure? Grab a bottle of Bulleit Rye and get mixing!

Sweet & Spicy Delight: Unveiling the High West Double Rye

Alcohol content: 92 proof (46% ABV)
How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
Similar to: Templeton Rye

Craving a rye whiskey that’s smooth, sweet, and a bit spicy? Look no further than the High West Double Rye! This blend offers a pleasant ride for your taste buds, starting with a subtle sweetness on the nose, hinting at oak and cinnamon.

First sip? A creamy mouthfeel followed by a burst of rye spice, mint, and cinnamon. The finish is remarkably smooth, with a lingering aftertaste of rye spice, baking spices, and brown sugar. A touch of black pepper peeks in, but it doesn’t steal the show.

Neat or on the rocks? Both work! While it’s enjoyable neat, a drop of water unlocks its sweeter side, making it even more approachable.

Looking for something exceptional? This might not be your top pick. But if you want a **solid rye whiskey with **pleasant sweetness, moderate spice, and minimal burn, the High West Double Rye delivers. It’s a reliable choice for an enjoyable drinking experience.

Here’s the scoop: