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Whiskey Review: High West Rendezvous Rye (2021)

We review the 2021 release of Rendezvous Rye from High West Distillery. It's a combination of rye whiskeys distilled at High West, and at MGP.

OVERALL RATING

6
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High West Rendezvous Rye (image via Jason Marshall)

Tasting Notes

About:

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.
Palate:
Strong notes of cinnamon mix with a slightly sweet confectionary flavor. It’s slightly astringent, and reminiscent of Big Red Gum.
Finish:
Comments:
One of the recent changes in time has been the explosion of rye whiskeys on the market compared to when Rendezvous first came out. This is definitely a different product, and aside from the prevailing cinnamon note, it would be hard to differentiate from its contemporaries. The price point may be banking on Rendezvous’ reputation, but that’s not to say that there isn’t room to stand out once again in the subsequent releases.

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Jason Marshall

Jason Marshall has dedicated his career to championing and mentoring bartenders, fostering an environment where fresh talent and innovative ideas thrive. Through this process, he has cultivated his own creativity, nurtured aspiring individuals who have pursued their passions, and organized cocktail competitions with a focus on community engagement. A certified Executive Bourbon Steward, Jason currently holds the position of Officer and Board Member of The Oregon Bartenders Guild USBG/Oregon.

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