Rebel Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Nose: Spicy Rye but also rye bread. Not too strong, nor overpowering. A second sniff brought out some alcohol and maybe a small amount of corn. Palate: A nice light rye spiciness up front, then a dwindling middle and then a slowly building finish. It is not harsh or burning, but definitely there is an increase in warmth as it goes on. It ends up warming up the back of the throat before it warms it’s way down. The mouthfeel is a bit watery and the initial taste is a bit bland but not unpleasant. A second sip brought a little yeastyness and maybe a hint of dark chocolate or cocoa, but the finish built up the same way, except on the second sip, you’re ready for it. Comments: Well, this is another Heaven Hill product, but I know a lot of people don’t like regular Rebel Yell and maybe even this version, which is a “step up” or “bigger brother” to Rebel Yell. I happen to like it, even though there isn’t anything too complex or outstanding going on. For the money, it is on par with other daily drinkers, as far as I’m concerned. That said, it seems my palate was WAY off today. This is a 90.6 proof WHEATED bourbon that is made from a “secret Weller family recipe”. My take didn’t match ANYBODY else’s. Oh, and…. I’m also not sure if this is an old label or not. While dorking around the Internet, I found what LOOKS to be the same product but with a different label (“Rebel Yell Small Batch Reserve - also 90.6 proof). Lastly, here’s maybe a strange tip……take little sips of this. When I took too large a snootful, I ended up feeling more burn on the end. Smaller sips just made it a pleasant warmth.