Bourbon - High RyeStyle

A bourbon whose mash bill carries more rye than usual, roughly 20% or more, with corn still the majority grain. The extra rye brings spice and a drier finish while keeping bourbon's sweetness.

The Rules

• Meets every bourbon rule
• Corn still at least 51%
• Rye the second grain, typically 20 to 35%
• There is no legal "high rye" label: WOW uses the known mash bill

On The Label

• Rarely printed on the label; producers sometimes give the mash bill
• Many well-known brands are high rye, such as Four Roses, Old Grand-Dad and Bulleit

What To Expect

Pepper, cinnamon, clove and mint layered over caramel and vanilla, often with a drier, longer finish than a traditional bourbon.

Why It Matters

Rye is the spice lever in bourbon. Knowing which bourbons are high rye helps you find more of what you like, or avoid it.