Jefferson’s Bourbon Added a Rye Whiskey to Its Core Lineup of Bourbons
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Robb Report may receive an affiliate commission.
Jefferson’s Bourbon is a Kentucky whiskey brand known for trying some unconventional experiments, like sending barrels out to traverse the globe on a container ship or to age in tropical climates in different countries to see what the effects of accelerated maturation might be. It also counts whiskey that has been given a secondary finish in rum, cognac, or wine casks in its portfolio. The latest release keeps things relatively simple, however—and it’s a rye whiskey instead of a bourbon.
The Jefferson’s portfolio has been mostly built upon bourbon, although there are a pair of rye whiskeys in the mix as well. These include a spirit finished in Cognac casks and Ocean Aged at Sea Rye, a double-barreled whiskey that was part of the brand’s 26th whiskey sojourn across the seven seas. The new Jefferson’s Rye, however, is a blend of straight rye whiskeys, specifically whiskeys aged for six, seven, and nine years in new charred oak barrels. The source of the whiskey and the exact mashbill are not disclosed, but according to master blender Ale Ochoa it is a classic rye that is also indicative of the Jefferson’s character.
“Our Jefferson’s Rye Whiskey distinguishes itself with a unique blend that showcases the depth and complexity of aged ryes combined with the influence of our Ocean Rye,” she said in a statement. “This expression is crafted to deliver a vibrant yet smooth experience, capturing the unique qualities of rye while offering a new take on its classic characteristics.”
Jefferson’s founder Trey Zoeller says rye is one of his favorite whiskey categories, so he wanted this 88-proof release to be a multifaceted one. “We wanted to create something versatile and innovative with a mashbill of various ages of rye that was perfect to enjoy neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail,” he said. “It has that bold kick up front, but it finishes warm and smooth—not dry like many ryes you find in market.” The official tasting notes describe fig, spice, and vanilla on the nose, followed by baking spice, cherry, and mint on the palate.
You can find Jefferson’s Rye available to purchase now at stores around the country and at ReserveBar, and it’s an affordable whiskey with a suggested retail price of just $35. You can also find the rest of the Jefferson’s lineup, including the excellent Tropics Aged in Humidity and Pritchard Hill (one of the best wine-cask finished bourbons on the market) at ReserveBar as well.
Authors
-
Jonah Flicker
