As we have often in the past, today Talking Bourbon will be Talking Rye, tasting Rittenhouse Rye from Heaven Hill. Rittenhouse sells for around $20, is 100 proof (bottled in bond) and comes in an ordinary screw top bottle. We had no problem finding a bottle.
NOSE:
Todd: I could definitely smell the Rye along with a sweet, caramel, malty aroma. I also got some kind of black fruit with a little bit of banana and mint.
Ron: I also picked up the caramel and a little bit of the malt. Also detected some oak and pear aromas. Under all that, I got a smell that reminded me of clean linen.
TASTE:
Todd: Hot neat but not bad, liked it better with a few cubes. I tasted the Rye and sweetness I got on the nose along with vanilla and a light touch of chocolate. Not quite as spicy as other Rye’s.
Ron: I tasted sweet\spicy notes with more sweetness than spice. Also got some caramel and a touch of honey.
FINISH:
Todd: Medium, the heat stays longer than the taste. Detected a bit of mint along with some ginger and caramel.
Ron: Medium to medium-long with some hints of vanilla.
OVERALL
Todd: Even though it didn’t shine in any one category, the whole was much better than the sum. I really enjoyed this Rye.
Ron: I thought this was a good Rye but drinks more like a high rye Bourbon. A lot sweeter than most Rye’s. I will have a bottle in my cabinet soon since this one is Todd’s.
Nose 3.75 out of 5
Taste 8.25 out of 10
Finish 3.75 out of 5
Total Score 15.75 Barrels out of 20
We both really liked Rittenhouse Rye. Even at 100 proof it is drinkable neat, but really shines with a cube or two. Also, the higher proof makes for a real good cocktail. At $20 or so you won’t mind using it as a mixer.
Final verdict, you need a bottle of this in your cabinet.