Classification: Straight Bourbon
Company: Blue Run Spirits, LLC
Distillery: Sourced (from an undisclosed Kentucky distillery[ies])
Release Date: October 2021
Proof: 111
Age: NAS
Mashbill: 65% Corn, 30% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
Color: Bright Amber
MSRP: $90 (2021)
Cinnamon bark | Rye spice | Caramel | Dill | Nice body
Cinnamon spice | Layered caramel sweetness | Burnt oak | Cake batter
Rye spice intensifies and holds | Caramel sweetness complements spice | Long
Blue Run’s inaugural 13 year old bourbon released in October 2020 surprised me with its elegant bottle design and pitch-perfect blending. In my review, I asked for a “sub-$100” release from Blue Run, noting the fact that $170 was a stretch for many. Blue Run High Rye Bourbon doesn’t come with the same double-digit age statement, but manages to translate the same balance found in the inaugural release. At about four years old, High Rye does well to hide any imperfections brought about due to its age. It maintains a focus on spice, which is complemented by caramel sweetness. It's still pricey at $90, but the combination of thoughtful blending, low bottle count, and high end bottle design probably won't leave anyone feeling like they've overpaid.