Drink of the Day: Bulleit Bourbon
A look at the history and character of this Kentucky staple
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Drink of the Day: Bulleit Bourbon
Bulleit Bourbon is a widely recognized Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey known for its distinctively high rye content. This spirit has become a staple in bars and homes across the United States due to its bold, spicy flavor profile. It serves as a primary example of the modern revival of traditional American whiskey recipes.
Company History
The Bulleit Distilling Company was founded in 1987 by Thomas E. Bulleit, Jr., who sought to revive a family legacy. While the brand traces its roots to the 1830s, the modern iteration of the company began with Tom Bulleit leveraging his background to bring the spirit to a global market. In 2017, the company opened a state-of-the-art distillery in Shelbyville, Kentucky, which has since become a prominent destination on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
Product History
The history of the product begins with Augustus Bulleit, a tavern keeper who crafted a high-rye whiskey recipe in the 1830s. Production of this original whiskey ceased following his death in 1860, remaining dormant for over a century. In 1987, Tom Bulleit reintroduced the brand using a recipe inspired by his great-great-grandfather, characterized by a mash bill containing a significant portion of rye, corn, and barley malt. The bourbon is aged in new, charred American oak containers to develop its signature medium amber color and complex flavor notes of maple, oak, and nutmeg.
Review
Bulleit Bourbon maintains a strong reputation among enthusiasts and professionals alike. Based on an average of scores from Distiller, which reports a community rating of 3.48 out of 5 stars, and general industry consensus from sources like Gentlemen Ranters and the TAG Global Spirits Awards, the spirit is widely regarded as a reliable and high-quality choice. The averaged score across these independent assessments is approximately 3.7 out of 5 stars.
Serving Guide
Glassware: Rocks glass | Serving temperature: Room temperature or chilled with ice | ABV: 45%
Serving Suggestions
- Serve neat or on the rocks to appreciate the full complexity of the high-rye mash bill.
- Pair with a medium-cooked ribeye steak to complement the savory notes of the bourbon.
- Use as a base for classic cocktails such as the Old Fashioned to highlight its spicy character.
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Drink of the Day feature with 3-source review by the PENN Food & Spirits Desk.
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