Cherry | Raspberry | Caramel | Charred oak | Vanilla extract

Mixed nuts | Raspberry | Caramel | Creamy mouthfeel

Cinnamon | Seasoned oak | Caramel | Dark brown sugar | Light molasses | Lingering charred oak & spice

Lux Row Distillers has partnered with Richard Childress Racing (RCR) to make Rebel Straight Bourbon the Official Bourbon of Richard Childress Racing. The announcement coincided with the release of a limited edition release of two-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion Kyle “Rowdy” Busch selected single barrel bourbon. The bourbon is proofed to 108 in honor of Rebel’s sponsorship of RCR and Busch’s No. 8 Rebel Bourbon Chevrolet.

This 4 year old bourbon has an appealing aroma driven by sweet red fruits. Caramel enters and starts what will become a dominating element throughout the sip. Smoky charred oak and vanilla extract round out a surprisingly rich aroma. The palate and finish are equally flavorful with mixed nuts, raspberry, and caramel transitioning to cinnamon, seasoned oak, caramel, and dark brown sugar.

Given the Rebel brand’s often undisclosed origin and value-centric price point, releases typically fall into average and serviceable territory. But anyone with single barrel experience can tell you, quality can vary from barrel to barrel, and Kyle Busch appears to know a decent bourbon when he tastes one. Philip Lux, Rebel Bourbon brand manager states, “Kyle selected every barrel for this one-of-a-kind release with the guidance of Master Distiller John Rempe.” Seeing as this is a 30,000 bottle release, that’s a lot of single barrels.

Though far from complex and lacking ample depth, this single barrel simply tastes good. Given the wide range of Busch fans, some of whom may be experienced bourbon drinkers and others who value a solid pour, I can see many enjoying this particular single barrel. If this is representative of the other single barrels Busch picked, the slight uptick in price may be worth it for many.

The bottle in review is from barrel no. 336493.