Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 05:55 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.
Uncover distinctions between Bulleit Rye and Old Forester Rye in this comprehensive comparison, and select your preferred Rye Whiskey!
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 Old Forester Rye: Comparison
Bulleit Rye: Spicy, smooth with mint, vanilla, and caramel. Rocks or cocktails friendly. 45% ABV. Ideal for those who enjoy a classic rye spice with versatility in drinking.
Old Forester 100 Proof Rye: Bold, spicy with cinnamon, clove, and vanilla. Great for cocktails. 50% ABV. Suited for experienced drinkers looking for a robust rye to enhance their cocktails.
Verdict: Bulleit Rye offers a classic, spicy rye experience with smoothness and versatility. Old Forester 100 Proof Rye stands out for its boldness and suitability for creating complex cocktails, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Budget Rye Whiskey Top List
Bulleit Rye: A Spicy and Smooth 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: Angel’s Envy Rum Cask Rye
Looking for a rye whiskey that delivers both spice and smoothness? Bulleit Rye might be the perfect choice.
Spicier than its bourbon counterpart, Bulleit Rye’s high rye mash bill (95%) shines through on the nose with hints of rye spice, cedar wood, and even a touch of mint.
The taste follows suit, offering a burst of rye spice balanced by subtle notes of spearmint, caramel, and vanilla.
The finish is medium to long, leaving a warming sensation with lingering mint and charred oak.
Key characteristics:
- High rye content (95%) for a bold and spicy character
- Smooth and easy to drink despite the spice
- Versatile: Enjoy neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails
A good choice for:
- Rye whiskey enthusiasts seeking a classic and spicy experience
- Those who appreciate bold flavors with a touch of sweetness
- Mixologists looking for a powerful rye to enhance cocktails
While not boasting unique flavor complexities, Bulleit Rye excels in its consistency and value. For those seeking a high-rye whiskey for cocktails or a spicy sipper, Bulleit Rye is a solid option.
Additional facts:
- Aged between 5-6 years in heavily charred, new American oak casks.
- No age statement.
- Earned Double Gold and Gold Medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
- Produced by MGP of Indiana alongside other notable rye whiskeys.
- Owned by London-based Diageo.
Old Forester 100 Proof Rye: Bold Rye Spice for Cocktails
- Nose: Rye spice, spearmint, cinnamon
- Palate: Rye spice, cinnamon, clove, vanilla, caramel
- Finish: Medium length, anise, clove, cinnamon
- Alcohol content: 100 proof (50% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Rittenhouse Rye
The Old Forester 100 Proof Rye boasts a moderately high rye content (65%) and a robust 100 proof (50% ABV), making it a great choice for cocktails like Old Fashioneds and Manhattans.
On the nose: Spicy rye takes center stage, followed by hints of spearmint and cinnamon.
On the palate: Expect a peppery punch with flavors of cinnamon, clove, and other baking spices. Sweet notes of vanilla and caramel emerge after the initial spice, complemented by a touch of licorice.
The finish is warm, spicy, and slightly sharp, lingering with rye spice, oak, and cinnamon.
A good choice for:
- Experienced whiskey drinkers who enjoy bold flavors and moderate spice.
- Those looking for a powerful rye to elevate classic cocktails.
While it packs a punch, this rye’s complexity and slight burn can be softened with a touch of water.
Old Forester 100 Proof Rye facts:
- Launched in 2019 with a new mash bill – the first in 150 years!
- Made with 65% rye, 20% malted barley, and 15% corn.
- No age statement.
- Earned Gold at the 2020 International Wine & Spirits Competition.
- Produced at the Brown-Forman distillery in Shively, Kentucky.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Bulleit Rye | $23 |
| Old Forester 100 Proof Rye | $29 |