Rittenhouse Bottled In Bond Straight Rye Whiskey 750ml

Rittenhouse Bottled-in-Bond Rye Whiskey

is a distinguished spirit produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, known for its rich heritage and quality. This rye whiskey is crafted in the tradition of classic Pennsylvania or Monongahela rye whiskeys, although it now utilizes a modern Kentucky-style mash bill. With a composition of 51% rye, 37% corn, and 12% malted barley, Rittenhouse stands out as one of the few bottled-in-bond ryes available on the market today.

Historical Context

Rittenhouse has a storied past that dates back to the Continental Distilling Corporation in Philadelphia, which sought to revive the Pennsylvania rye tradition post-Prohibition. The whiskey is named after Rittenhouse Square in Philadelphia and has evolved over time, especially after being acquired by Heaven Hill in the 1980s. Despite changes in production location and methods, Rittenhouse remains a symbol of American rye whiskey.

Production Standards

As a Bottled-in-Bond (BiB) whiskey, Rittenhouse adheres to strict regulations set forth by the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897. This means it must be:

• The product of one distillation season.
• Aged for at least four years in a federally bonded warehouse.
• Bottled at exactly 100 proof (50% ABV).
• Clearly labeled with the distillery’s name.

These standards ensure that consumers receive a high-quality product that reflects consistency and authenticity.

Tasting Notes

Appearance

Rittenhouse Rye presents itself with a copper hue, indicative of its aging process in charred oak barrels.

Nose

The aroma is inviting and complex, featuring notes of mint, caramel, cedar, and hints of dill. Some reviews also mention dried fruits such as apricots and peaches mingling with malty grains.

Palate

On the palate, Rittenhouse delivers a balanced experience with flavors of mint, cedar, ginger, caramel, and light spices like cinnamon. It is noted for its smoothness despite being bottled at 100 proof; many drinkers find it approachable whether enjoyed neat or mixed into cocktails.

Finish

The finish is medium-length with warmth and lingering notes of cedar and cinnamon. While some may find it less spicy compared to other ryes due to its lower rye content relative to traditional ryes (which often contain higher percentages), it still offers an enjoyable complexity.

Versatility

Rittenhouse Rye is celebrated not only for its sipping qualities but also as an excellent base for cocktails. Its fruit-forward profile makes it appealing to both seasoned whiskey drinkers and those new to rye whiskey. It serves well in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan due to its ability to hold up against other ingredients without overwhelming them.

Conclusion

In summary, Rittenhouse Bottled-in-Bond Rye Whiskey represents an accessible yet high-quality option within the rye category. Its historical significance combined with modern production techniques makes it a staple for both cocktail enthusiasts and those looking to explore the world of rye whiskey without venturing into overly spicy territory. Priced around $25 per bottle, it provides great value while maintaining a reputation as one of the best budget-friendly ryes available today.