High West Rendezvous Rye stands as the flagship expression that put the Utah-based distillery on the global map. Inspired by the legendary 19th-century mountain men “rendezvous” gatherings of the American West, this rye celebrates both frontier spirit and classic whiskey making. The 2020 release earned an astounding 99 points at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC), confirming its reputation as one of the finest rye whiskies in modern production. It’s bold yet balanced, a masterclass in spice, depth, and craftsmanship.

Product Details:

Brand: High West Distillery | Category: Straight Rye Whiskey | ABV: 46% | Origin: USA (Utah) | Volume: 750ml

Tasting Profile:

Nose: Aromatic and layered, offering cinnamon, clove, dried fruit, and caramel. Hints of pine, orange peel, and vanilla rise with the rye’s natural spice.
Palate: Full-bodied and vibrant. Sweet toffee and baked apple open the palate, followed by bold rye grain spice, pepper, and herbal undertones. A touch of mint and oak adds balance and complexity.
Finish: Long, dry, and elegant, notes of dark chocolate, spice, and orange zest linger with a warming fade.

Production Details:

Rendezvous Rye is a blend of straight rye whiskies sourced and expertly matured by High West. The blend typically includes a 95% rye / 5% malted barley whiskey and a 80% rye / 20% malted rye whiskey, each aged between four and nine years. This combination allows High West to achieve remarkable depth, young rye’s bold spice harmonized with mature rye’s rich sweetness. Every batch is bottled without chill filtration to preserve full character.

Perfect For:

Ideal for neat sipping or as the star spirit in a refined Manhattan or Old Fashioned. A superb choice for rye enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate both classic American whiskey tradition and modern blending artistry.

Expert Notes:

Awarded 99 Points at IWSC 2020, the highest possible accolade, described by judges as “a rye of extraordinary depth and harmony.” Critics praise its ability to deliver spice and sweetness in perfect proportion, making it a benchmark rye whiskey in the global category.

Customer Reviews:

“Explosive rye spice balanced with elegant sweetness, near perfection.” Daniel W.
“Proof that American rye can rival any Scotch in complexity.” Rachel K.
“Every pour feels like a discovery, bold, warm, and unforgettable.” Travis M.

Interesting Fact:

High West was Utah’s first legal distillery since 1870. Founded by biochemist-turned-distiller David Perkins, the brand pioneered the art of American whiskey blending, transforming sourced barrels into cohesive, world-class expressions. Rendezvous Rye remains their most awarded and defining release.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve neat or with a single ice cube to reveal its spice evolution. For cocktails, try in a Manhattan with sweet vermouth and a dash of orange bitters, its structure and body hold beautifully.

Distillery Background:

Founded in Park City, Utah, in 2006, High West Distillery was built on a passion for resurrecting forgotten whiskey styles of the Old West. Situated at over 7,000 feet above sea level, it is one of the highest-altitude distilleries in the world. Combining frontier authenticity with technical precision, High West has earned a reputation for producing whiskies that are as adventurous as they are refined and Rendezvous Rye remains its enduring masterpiece.

American Whiskey & Bourbon