High Plains Rye is a blend of five straight rye whiskeys from four distilleries in four states, selected and blended by former Four Roses master distiller Jim Rutledge and bottled at 97 proof (48.5% ABV).
Jim Rutledge is one of the most respected American whiskey blenders of his generation. For the inaugural bottling of High Plains from his J.W. Rutledge Distillery, he brought together straight ryes of varying mash bills from Kentucky Artisan Distillery in Kentucky, Middle West Spirits in Ohio, MGP in Indiana and New York Distilling Company in New York, each with its own character.
The blend is complex, opening with a sizzle of cayenne and clove and rounding into vanilla and caramel. Almond, praline and cashew appear with a zip of cinnamon, and the palate balances sweet baking spice, toasted oak, rye grain and wood sweetness. The finish is warm with cloves, brown sugar and cinnamon. Wine Enthusiast rated it 93 points.
It is a great gift for rye lovers and whiskey nerds alike.
American rye whiskey is made from a mash of at least 51% rye and aged in new charred oak, giving it a spicier, drier character than bourbon, with notes of pepper, herbs and baking spice.
Tasting Notes
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Opening: Cayenne and clove, rounding into vanilla and caramel.
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Palate: Baking spice, toasted oak, almond and praline.
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Finish: Cloves, brown sugar and cinnamon.
Specifications
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Producer: J.W. Rutledge Distillery (Jim Rutledge)
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Style: Blend of straight rye whiskeys
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Sources: Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana and New York distilleries
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Proof / ABV: 97 proof (48.5% ABV)
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Region: USA
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Sip it neat or with a splash of water, or stir it into a Manhattan or Sazerac. It pairs with charcuterie, spiced nuts or gingerbread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who blended it?
Jim Rutledge, former master distiller of Four Roses.
What is in the blend?
Five straight rye whiskeys from four distilleries in Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana and New York.
What is the proof?
97 proof (48.5% ABV).
Explore more in our Rye collection.
