Rittenhouse Straight Rye Whisky Bottled in Bond is a Other Whiskey crafted in United States.
Rittenhouse Straight Rye Whisky Bottled in Bond is a classic American rye that packs a punch with its bold, spicy character and smooth finish. Interestingly, this whisky played a crucial role during Prohibition, as it was one of the few spirits legally produced for medicinal purposes, allowing the distillery to maintain its operations and preserve its recipe during those dry years.
Cocktail enthusiasts should seek out Rittenhouse Straight Rye Whisky Bottled in Bond for its bold, spicy character and exceptional value. This 100-proof rye stands out for its adherence to the strict Bottled in Bond regulations, ensuring a consistent, high-quality spirit that shines in classic cocktails like the Sazerac and Manhattan while offering a more assertive flavor profile compared to many other ryes on the market.
Rittenhouse Straight Rye Whisky Bottled in Bond shines in classic whiskey cocktails, particularly those calling for a robust, spicy rye, but it's equally enjoyable sipped neat or with a splash of water to open up its complex flavors. Its warming character makes it perfect for cooler months, pairing wonderfully with hearty dishes like grilled meats or rich, savory stews that complement its bold profile.
Nose: Spicy rye bread, vanilla, and oak come through first. Hints of caramel, nutmeg, and dried orange peel follow. A subtle undercurrent of black pepper adds complexity.
Palate: Bold rye spice hits immediately, followed by brown sugar and cinnamon. Flavors of toasted nuts, dark chocolate, and dried fruits emerge. The 100 proof gives a warming sensation without overwhelming heat.
Finish: Long and dry. Lingering notes of rye spice, oak tannins, and black pepper. A touch of dark honey sweetness balances the spiciness. Leaves a pleasant warmth in the chest.
Rittenhouse Straight Rye Whisky Bottled in Bond is crafted at Heaven Hill's Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky, using a mash bill of at least 51% rye grain. What's fascinating about its production is that it adheres to the strict Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, which requires the whiskey to be aged for at least four years in a federally bonded warehouse and bottled at 100 proof, ensuring a consistent, high-quality product that reflects the true character of American rye whiskey.
My first bottle, I thought, no, this isn't for me. I'm a hobbyist cocktail crafter and I don't know why that was my first impression. Then I tried it in a Manhattan and next thing I knew, there was just a bit left in the bottle. So here am I, into the second bottle. It will always have a place in my home bar for Manhattans and the like.
The sharp bite of the rye stands up to being used in cocktails. Perfect for the Vieux Carre, Sazerac, and Brooklyn with all the competing strong flavors. Not my favorite sipping whisk(e)y or even rye, but its ability in mixed drinks makes it is well deserving of the shelf space for this home bartender.
This is THE mixing rye, it’s fine on its own but it shines highly in cocktails. It’s a high corn rye, so it’s very approachable for bourbon drinkers. In a cocktail with 3+ ingredients this works wonderfully, it’s still good in something like a Manhattan but really works great in an Improved Whiskey Cocktail.
I won’t lie and say this is a great sipping rye, although I do sip it, but I tell the truth when I claim it is wonderful in cocktails. Many ryes yell “look at me!” in a cocktail. Rittenhouse is not that. It gets along with all the other ingredients. Happy Happy whisky happy.
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Please drink responsibly. CA Residents: Proposition 65 Warning.
