Remus Highest Rye Straight Bourbon Whiskey bottled at 54.5% ABV, 109 proof; A 6-year-old Indiana straigh — a $55 expression that merits close attention.
Nose
Deep amber with glints of mahogany. Boy is it hot and spicy. The cherry comes through more on the palate than it does on the nose. Its herbal with thyme, but overall it is peppery with a bit of barbecue pit smoke. The oak hits quickly, adding character rather than blandness. As it eats at the sides of my tongue, it feels like a burning ember in my stomach, yet I want more.
Palate
There is a slight acetone note at the beginning, but then it goes into this metallic, meaty, and herbaceous concoction. The baking spices are there with a hint of espresso. However, I cannot escape the savory elements. It is like a beautiful slow-cooked brisket smoked with cherry woodmedium rare and juicy. It has a hint of salt and buttermilk biscuits coming through the backend. The Remus High Rye Straight Bourbon will make you a masochist tolerating the aggressive burn from the two types of rye. I couldn’t decide if I liked it or not until I let it breathe. I do prefer it on the rocks or in a cocktail since the proof is too much with the rye spice.rnrnI would put it in a flight of bourbon, high rye, and rye. It’s bold. It’s tasty. It’s not for beginners.
Finish
Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by Whiskeyful 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.
Verdict
Remus Highest Rye Straight Bourbon Whiskey delivers a thoroughly accomplished whiskey that justifies its $55 price point. It is well-crafted, balanced, and worthy of a place in any considered collection.
