Blue Note Bourbon has just dropped its first-ever Single Barrel Straight Rye Whiskey, a release that’s got whiskey lovers buzzing. This new expression, born in Kentucky but crafted with Memphis flair, is a testament to the brand’s knack for blending tradition with bold character. With a price tag of $49.95 for a 750ml bottle, it’s now available online at BlueNoteBourbon.com and in select stores across 20 U.S. states. For those who appreciate a rye that’s as rich in flavor as it is in story, this one’s worth a pour.
The whiskey itself is a heavy hitter, built on a classic mash bill of 95% rye and 5% malted barley. Aged for at least four years in American oak barrels, it’s bottled unfiltered at a robust 116-124 proof, delivering a full-throttle experience that doesn’t pull punches. The aging process happens just north of downtown Memphis, where the Mississippi and Wolf Rivers meet. The region’s sweltering summer days and cooler nights work their magic, pushing the whiskey deep into the oak for a flavor profile that’s both intense and smooth.
Image credit: Blue Note
Tasting this rye is like stepping into a Memphis juke joint—vibrant, soulful, and a little rough around the edges in the best way. On the nose, it’s soft and welcoming, with perfumed fruits dancing alongside warm honey sweetness. Notes of baked apples and buttered toffee linger in the glass, inviting you to take your time. The palate hits with a dense, tingly kick, starting with leather and deep berry flavors. As it settles, thick cherry cobbler emerges, layered with herbal and spice notes that add complexity. Fudge-covered graham crackers and a hint of ginger tie it all together. The finish is long and satisfying, trailing off with candied fruits, toasted honey, and a touch of Thin Mint cookies that sticks around like a good song.
Blue Note’s whiskey portfolio is no stranger to acclaim. The brand, which draws inspiration from the gritty, soulful blues music of Memphis, has racked up serious hardware. Its flagship Juke Joint ($34.99) and Crossroads ($44.99) expressions snagged Platinum medals at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, a rare honor for earning Double Gold medals three years running. The standard Straight Rye Whiskey ($34.99) also pulled in a Double Platinum at the 2024 ASCOT Awards. This new single barrel release joins the lineup alongside the Uncut ($49.99), continuing Blue Note’s tradition of crafting whiskeys that hit all the right notes.
Image credit: Blue Note
The production process is a partnership with Lofted Spirits, formerly known as Bardstown Bourbon Company and the parent of Green River Distilling. While the whiskey starts its life in Kentucky, it’s the Memphis aging process that gives it its distinctive edge. Blue Note’s 110,000-square-foot facility on Royal Avenue, just north of downtown, is where the barrels soak up the region’s unique climate. The heat and humidity work together to create a whiskey that’s bold yet balanced, with a richness that reflects the city’s musical heritage.
For whiskey fans, this single barrel rye is a chance to experience something limited and special. Each bottle comes from a single barrel, meaning no two are exactly alike, and the high proof ensures a sipping experience that’s as intense as a late-night blues riff. At $49.95, it’s priced to compete with other premium ryes, offering a lot of bang for the buck. Whether you’re sipping it neat, on the rocks, or mixing it into a bold cocktail, this rye brings a Memphis swagger that’s hard to beat.
Available in 20 states and online, it’s easy to get your hands on a bottle, but with its limited release status, it might not stick around long. Blue Note has carved out a niche for itself by blending Kentucky’s whiskey heritage with Memphis’s soulful vibe, and this Single Barrel Straight Rye Whiskey is a perfect example of that fusion. For those who love a rye that’s spicy, complex, and full of character, this release is a must-try. Pour a glass, crank up some blues, and let the good times roll.
