Rittenhouse Straight Rye Whisky

Rittenhouse Straight Rye Whisky is a product of Heaven Hill Distillery and is one of my favorite remaining Bottled In Bond (BIB) ryes available today. BIB refers to the Bottled In Bond Act of 1897, which was a government regulation which required American whiskey to be the product of one distillation season (Jan. to Dec.) at one distillery. It also had to be aged in a federally approved warehouse under U.S. Government supervision for four years and bottled at 100 proof. The BIB Act was supported by the renowned Edmund Haynes Taylor, who believed that the quality of American distilleries should be kept at the highest level.

Color: Rustic Amber

Nose: A thick, rich rye spice note jumps out of the glass. Sticky caramel follows with vanilla, an earthy and herbal mint, ginger, and oak.

Taste: Rye is the heavy weight champion here with caramel and mint slugging it out for second place. Vanilla wafers and cherries spark on the palate with a grassy oak caboose.  

Finish: A warm and medium finish with a pleasant oak note and wide array of spices (mostly rye and black pepper). 

Conclusion:  With these BIB regulations, Rittenhouse flaunts a robust flavor profile with bold caramel, vanilla, and oak notes similar to most well-aged bourbons. At an average price of $25, it's a great budget rye, and while very good neat, it makes a great cocktail; give it a try in your next Old Fashioned or Manhattan! 

My Rating:  B+ (Very Good)

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