Blue Run High Rye is a small-batch Kentucky straight bourbon, aged four years in new charred oak and bottled at 111 proof (55.5% ABV).
This release represents a significant milestone for Blue Run, with a new master distiller overseeing production. It was distilled at Castle & Key Distillery with the involvement of Bourbon Hall of Famer Jim Rutledge, whose long legacy with high-rye bourbon gives the bottle added significance. The higher rye content balances traditional bourbon sweetness with peppery spice, toasted oak and savoury depth.
Rather than leaning only on caramel and vanilla, it brings a layered profile of baking spice, stone fruit, black pepper and oak, bold yet approachable enough for neat sipping.
A high-rye Kentucky bourbon in Blue Run's distinctive bottle, it makes a fine gift.
Sip it neat, then add a few drops of water.
Bourbon must be made in the United States from a mash of at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak containers, and straight bourbon must be aged at least two years. Those rules give bourbon its characteristic sweetness, with caramel and vanilla drawn from the charred barrels.
Kentucky straight bourbon must be made in Kentucky from a mash of at least 51% corn, aged at least two years in new charred oak and bottled with nothing added but water.
A high-rye bourbon raises the share of rye in the mash, usually to 20% or more, which brings pepper, baking spice and a drier, more structured palate.
Castle & Key Distillery occupies the restored Old Taylor Distillery site near Frankfort, Kentucky, one of the historic landmarks of bourbon.
At 111 proof, a few drops of water open up the fruit and spice.
Tasting Notes
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Spice: Baking spice and black pepper.
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Fruit: Stone fruit.
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Oak: Toasted oak.
Specifications
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Producer: Blue Run Spirits
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Style: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, High Rye
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Age: 4 years
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Proof / ABV: 111 proof (55.5% ABV)
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Distillery: Castle & Key
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Region: Kentucky, United States
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Sip it neat or with a little water. It pairs with peppered steak, stone fruit cobbler or a cigar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was it distilled?
At Castle & Key Distillery in Kentucky.
Who was involved?
Bourbon Hall of Famer Jim Rutledge.
What proof is it?
111 proof.
Explore more in our Bourbon collection.
