Rebel Yell Bourbon embodies the rich heritage of Kentucky craftsmanship, offering a versatile and smooth wheated bourbon experience. With a mash bill featuring corn and wheat, it delivers a balanced and approachable flavor profile featuring notes of caramel, vanilla, and subtle oak, complemented by hints of spice and honey. Distilled at 100 proof, this bourbon offers a bold yet refined sipping experience, perfect for enjoying neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails. Whether you're a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Rebel Yell Bourbon captures the essence of tradition and quality at an incredible value.
Process & Profile
Rebel Yell Bourbon is rooted in a time-honored recipe dating back to 1849. Crafted by Lux Row Distillers, this bourbon features a wheated mashbill comprising corn, wheat, and malted barley, distinguishing it from rye-based bourbons. The original recipe, created by William LaRue Weller, emphasizes a smooth, mellow character. Aging in charred American oak barrels enhances its flavor, balancing tradition and innovation. Rebel Yell offers a range of proofs and expressions, including 80-proof straight bourbon and the bolder 100-proof variant.
Tasting Notes
Rebel Yell Bourbon tantalizes the senses with its inviting aroma and layered flavors:
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Nose: Notes of honey, butter, and hints of raisin are complemented by the warmth of light spices.
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Palate: Smooth and approachable, the bourbon delivers flavors of vanilla, caramel, toasted oak, and a touch of fruitiness like sultanas or prunes. The wheated mash adds a soft, slightly sweet character, while subtle spices and oak provide complexity.
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Finish: The finish is long and warming, with lingering hints of apple, spice, and mellow oak.
What Makes It Special
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The Wheated Difference: Rebel Yell's mashbill replaces rye grain with wheat, resulting in a softer, smoother sip compared to traditional bourbons.
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Award-Winning Legacy: Multiple accolades, including a Platinum Medal from the SIP Awards and Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, cement its position as a quality bourbon for connoisseurs and newcomers alike.
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Versatile Offerings: From the approachable 80-proof Rebel Yell Kentucky Straight Bourbon to the rich, bold 100-proof variant, it caters to various palates at exceptional value.
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Heritage Meets Innovation: Rebel Yell honors its historical roots while embracing modern tastes, encapsulating a spirit of rebellion in every bottle.
How to Enjoy
Rebel Yell Bourbon's versatility allows you to enjoy it in multiple ways:
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Neat or On the Rocks: Appreciate the smooth, rich profile by sipping it straight or over ice.
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Cocktails: Its affordable price and balanced flavor make it ideal for classic bourbon cocktails like Old Fashioneds, Manhattans, or a Bourbon Smash.
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Pairing Suggestions: Enhance your experience by pairing it with smoked meats, caramel desserts, or cheese boards featuring sharp cheddars and creamy blues.
Final Thoughts
Rebel Yell Bourbon is a celebration of Kentucky craftsmanship and rebellious spirit. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or exploring bourbon for the first time, its approachable flavors, rich history, and exceptional value make it a must-try for anyone seeking a classic yet versatile whiskey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Rebel Yell Bourbon unique compared to other bourbons?
Rebel Yell Bourbon stands out for its wheated mash bill, which replaces the traditional rye grain with wheat. This creates a softer, smoother, and slightly sweeter flavor profile, distinguishing it from other bourbons.
What types of Rebel Yell Bourbon are available?
The Rebel Yell lineup includes several variants, such as Rebel Yell 100 Proof, Rebel Yell Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Rebel Yell Small Batch Reserve, and the Rebel Yell 10-Year Single Barrel. Each offers unique tasting notes, ranging from sweet and smooth to complex and robust.
What is the flavor profile of Rebel Yell Bourbon?
Rebel Yell Bourbon typically features notes of oak, vanilla, caramel, and raisins. Specific variants like the 100 Proof and Single Barrel also highlight flavors such as honey, butter, dark fruits, and subtle spices.
How should Rebel Yell Bourbon be enjoyed?
Rebel Yell Bourbon is versatile and can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a key ingredient in cocktails. Its smooth and approachable profile makes it a great choice for both sipping and mixing with other ingredients.
Where is Rebel Yell Bourbon produced?
Rebel Yell Bourbon is produced at Lux Row Distillers in Bardstown, Kentucky. The distillery uses Kentucky limestone-filtered water and charred white oak barrels to craft its signature bourbons.
Is Rebel Yell Bourbon an award-winning whiskey?
Yes, Rebel Yell Bourbon has received several accolades. For instance, the Rebel Yell Single Barrel won a Platinum Medal at the 2018 SIP Awards and a Double Gold Medal at the 2016 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
What is the history behind Rebel Yell Bourbon?
Rebel Yell Bourbon dates back to 1849, originally produced at the Stitzel-Weller Distillery. Its recipe was designed with a wheated mash bill, preserving a softer and smooth character. Over the years, Rebel Yell has maintained its rebellious spirit through modern rebranding and innovation.
What is the proof and alcohol content of Rebel Yell Bourbon?
The alcohol content varies by product. For example, the standard Rebel Yell is 80 proof (40% ABV), while Rebel Yell 100 Proof is 50% ABV, and the 10-Year Single Barrel is also bottled at 100 proof.
Is Rebel Yell Bourbon suitable for cocktails?
Absolutely. Rebel Yell Bourbons, with their smooth and slightly sweet profiles, excel in classic cocktails such as Old Fashioneds, Bourbon Sours, and Manhattans, making them a favorite among mixologists.
Can Rebel Yell Bourbon be considered a budget-friendly option?
Yes, Rebel Yell is known for its affordability. Options like Rebel Yell 100 Proof are priced around $20, offering great value for both sipping and experimenting in cocktails.