Editor’s Note: This whiskey was provided to us as a review sample by High West. This in no way, per our editorial policies, influenced the final outcome of this review. It should also be noted that by clicking the buy link towards the bottom of this review our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.
What do whiskey and Utah have in common? Both are great examples of how things can change very quickly, and they can also change very slowly, over a long period of time. Several years ago I had the good fortune of spending two weeks driving through Utah, marveling at its five timeless National Parks.
I don’t think I’m alone as far as being struck by the unique geography, the vastness, stark color and topographical contrast, it’s evident that eons of time can alter and carve this stunning landscape. This tells a story of time. It’s also amazing to see ancient petroglyphs telling the stories of indigenous peoples, as well as the Pioneer Register in Capitol Reef, marking the passage of Mormon pioneer settlers passing through the area.
After two weeks of being immersed in this grandeur, getting dusty and dirty, I returned to the civilization of Park City, where I had the good fortune to visit the High West Distillery and hear their story in person. As well with grain, wood and water, whiskey’s most precious ingredient is time. And it’s while we’re waiting for the spirit to develop when these stories are told. The story of High West is still relatively recent in the annals of whiskey lore, but it made a huge impact when it came on the scene. And their initial blend of Rendezvous Rye firmly planted their flag as Utah’s first legal distillery since 1870.
Beginning in 2021, Rendezvous Rye evolved from being a year-round core offering to a seasonal and limited edition release. Much like the distillery has grown and evolved from operating in an historic livery stable and garage to one of the most visitor-friendly distilleries I’ve had the pleasure to visit, change is inevitable. Whether supplies have run out, contacts have expired, or they want to incorporate some of their own distillate into their product, Rendezvous Rye is joining High West’s other limited releases such as A Midsummer’s Nights Dram and Bourye. So let’s get to tasting before it disappears.
Tasting Notes: High West Rendezvous Rye (2021)
Vital Stats: 92 proof (46%ABV) A blend of older straight rye whiskeys ranging in age from 4 to 9 years, including one 95% rye, 5% barley malt mash bill from MGP and one 80% rye, 20% malted rye mash bill from High West Distillery. Suggested retail price $69.99 for a 750 ML bottle. Park City, Utah.
Appearance: Golden yellow with brassy highlights. Clear and moderately viscous, forming slow running rivulets on the side of the tasting glass
Nose: Medium approach gives us cocoa powder and grassy green apple scents. A closer inspection reveals a mellow white pepper spice.
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Palate: Strong notes of cinnamon mix with a slightly sweet confectionary flavor. It’s slightly astringent, and reminiscent of Big Red Gum.
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