A smooth bourbon with rich vanilla, warm honey, and a distinctive rye spiciness.
Bulleit Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a remarkable American whiskey that exemplifies the rich tradition of bourbon craftsmanship. With its distinctive high-rye content and carefully selected ingredients, this bourbon stands out in the competitive whiskey market.
The Making
Bulleit Bourbon follows the strict requirements of bourbon production, using at least 51% corn in its mash bill. What sets it apart is its high rye content of about 28%, complemented by malted barley. The spirit is aged in charred American white oak barrels for at least four years, developing its complex flavor profile.
Taste Profile
On the nose, expect pronounced vanilla and caramel aromas with subtle hints of spice. The palate delivers:
- Rich oak and wood char notes
- Warm vanilla and honey sweetness
- Distinctive rye spiciness
- Subtle orange peel and dried fruit
The finish is long, warm, and exceptionally smooth, with lingering notes of oak and spice.
Territory
Produced in Kentucky, the heartland of bourbon production, Bulleit embraces the region's limestone-filtered water and extreme temperature variations, which contribute significantly to the aging process. The distillery continues the tradition of Kentucky bourbon-making that dates back to the 1800s.
What to Expect
This bourbon delivers a perfect balance of smoothness and complexity. The high rye content provides a unique spicy character that sets it apart from traditional bourbons. At 45% ABV, it offers a full-bodied experience without overwhelming the palate, making it excellent for both neat sipping and cocktails.
Fun Facts
- The brand was revived in 1987 by Thomas E. Bulleit Jr., inspired by his great-great-grandfather's 1830s recipe
- The distinctive bottle design is inspired by medicine bottles from the 1800s
- The high rye content in its mash bill is unusual for bourbon, creating its signature spicy character
- Despite its historical inspiration, modern Bulleit Bourbon production only began in the 1980s