The rise of Jack Daniel’s in recent years has been nothing short of incredible. The team in Lynchburg, Tennessee has been consistently releasing new and innovative whiskeys, pushing the boundaries of American whiskey. Last year, they introduced their “Bonded” line, featuring a Triple Mash and Tennessee Whiskey. These expressions were not only exceptional, but also affordable and easily accessible. This year, Jack Daniel’s has done it again with their Bonded Tennessee Rye.

The release of a Bonded Rye whiskey by Jack Daniel’s is truly exciting news. Not only will this whiskey be widely available, but it will also only cost around $30-$40 (depending on your state’s taxes). And let me tell you, it is worth every penny. The quality of this rye whiskey at such an affordable price point is truly remarkable.

What sets this Bonded Tennessee Rye apart is its impeccable craftsmanship. The base of this whiskey is Jack’s signature rye with a mash bill of 70% rye, 18% corn, and 12% malted barley. It is fermented with their own yeast and lactobacillus, twice distilled via column stills, and then filtered through 10 feet of sugar maple charcoal. After that, it spends four long years maturing in barrels before being batched, proofed, and bottled.

Now, let’s get into the tasting notes. On the nose, you’ll find ripe peaches, bananas, and Granny Smith apples, along with hints of molasses, winter ginger cakes, cinnamon bark, and smoldering sweetgrass. The palate offers a delightful combination of toffee and banana creaminess, followed by roasting herbs, sweetgrass, cedar bark, pipe tobacco, and smudging sage. The finish brings warmth and complexity with notes of banana bread, dried ancho chili, dark chocolate tobacco leaves, and more sweetgrass.

This Bonded Tennessee Rye is a fantastic choice for mixing cocktails. Its versatility makes it perfect for experimenting and creating your own unique drinks. However, it’s also enjoyable on its own, especially over ice when you want a no-fuss pour. One thing to note is that this is a fruity rye, in true Tennessee style. If you’re searching for a spicy or grassy rye, this might not be your top pick. While those elements are present, they take a backseat to the overall fruit-forward profile.

In terms of rating, I would give this Bonded Tennessee Rye an 85 out of 100. It’s a solid whiskey that shines in cocktails and highballs. Its humble yet tasty nature earns it a solid “B” rating. As for where to buy it, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s available wherever liquor is sold. So, there’s no need to worry about tracking down this gem.

In conclusion, Jack Daniel’s has once again impressed whiskey enthusiasts with their Bonded Tennessee Rye. With its affordable price, widespread availability, and exceptional quality, it’s a whiskey that deserves a spot on your bar shelf. Whether you’re mixing cocktails or enjoying it neat, this rye whiskey is sure to please. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try this gem firsthand.