Bardstown Origin Rye
Overall Score: 6.5/10
Overall Value: 3/5
Distillery: Bardstown Bourbon Company
Classification: Straight Rye Finished in Toasted Cherry Wood & Oak Barrels
Company: Bardstown Bourbon Company
Release Date: January 2023
Proof: 96
Age: 6 Years
Mashbill: 95% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
Color: Orange Gold
MSRP: $70 (2024)
The Barrel Bros’ Review
The nose initially presents a sweet fruitiness reminiscent of strawberry banana, almost suggestive of a bourbon. However, the rye spice emerges prominently, accompanied by hints of buttery pie crust and brown sugar. There is also a large amount of evergreen, which brings to mind wandering through a Christmas tree farm. You may also find some nice notes of mulling spice that may put you in a fall or Christmas spirit.
In terms of taste, it's a rye-forward experience, with no other discernible flavors. The initial sip was also similar to biting into a grape tootsie roll pop, with hints of chocolate emerging.
The finish mirrors the palate rye-heavy profile without introducing any new flavors. It lasts for a while, though it lacks really any surprises. Dominated by rye, with only a subtle sweetness emerging, it doesn't offer much beyond what's already been experienced.
So, grab a bottle or not? If you're introducing someone to rye whiskey, this bottle serves as a solid option, showcasing the clear rye notes well. However, in the overall evaluation, it falls slightly short, especially when compared to the outstanding Bardstown Origins Series Bourbon, which is also more budget-friendly.
While it stands as a staple rye suitable for beginners, its pricing may deter some enthusiasts, as it could offer better value at a lower price point, perhaps around $50.
If you’re looking for specific notes from our Barrel Bros, read their individual reviews below!
Individual Reviews
The Rye Guy Says
Score: 6.5/10
Value: 3/5
THE NOSE:
I initially got a sweet fruitiness like strawberry banana.
The fruitiness really had me thinking that this was a bourbon, but after that, the rye spice does become pretty apparent.
It is rounded out with a hint of buttery pie crust and brown sugar.
THE TASTE:
The first flavor reminded me of a grape tootsie roll pop when the chocolate center starts to come through.
Outside of that the rest of the palate presents very rye spice and evergreen.
THE FINISH:
I really didn’t discover any additional flavors on the finish.
It’s just a linear progression of the palate profile.
It has decent longevity to it, but it’s not going to surprise you.
BUY OR PASS?
This is a staple rye that I think would be great for an introductory pour. Anyone looking to take their first steps into rye whiskey would find a very good representation in this bottle.
Although, it is a bit overpriced for me. I'd be very happy with this at $50, but unfortunately, it is priced a bit higher than that which hurts its value for me.
The Hunter Says
Score: 6.5/10
Value: 3/5
THE NOSE:
It's like walking around a Christmas tree farm. You've got that evergreen scent, hitting you right away.
Plus, it's loaded with some nice mulling spice vibes. And the rye comes through strong — even a rookie taster could guess rye off the nose.
THE TASTE:
The whiskey feels heavy in the mouth, which for me makes it seem higher-end.
When it comes to flavor, it's all rye and nothing else, literally nothing else.
THE FINISH:
The finish is much the same — rye, rye, and more rye.
There’s just a hint of sweetness peeking through. But honestly, not much else to write home about.
BUY OR PASS?
If you're on a mission to expose someone to the world of rye whiskey, this bottle is a great option. It sings the notes of rye well.
However, grading the pour overall, this rye falls a bit short, especially when you're comparing it to the Bardstown Origins Series Bourbon — which is amazing and $20 cheaper.
