It has been more than 100 years since Green River Distillery was founded and unfortunately fell, like many, during prohibition. Created as the tenth registered distillery in western Kentucky, in 2016 the distillery reopened and released its first bourbon, again, in 2021. However, shortly after, in late 2022, Bardstown Bourbon Company officially acquired and brought this history back to Owensboro. Since the acquisition, the distillery has added two additional bottles to its lineup, including a 95/5 rye. Today’s bottle is produced by the Green River Distilling Company and is Green River Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey.

Bottle Information

From the Green River Distilling website: Green River’s Rye with its easy-drinking appeal and memorable finish dazzles on its own or punches through in a cocktail. This Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey is a blend of hand-selected 4 to 6 year old barrels, bottled at 95 proof, and boasts rich color and flavor. 95% Rye, 5% Malted Barley.

• Distiller: Distilled and Bottled by Green River Distilling Company
• Mash Bill: 95% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
• Proof: 95 Proof
• Age: NAS
• Year: 2023
• MSRP: $35
• 2024 National Average: $55
• Official Website

This is a bottle that I was particularly excited to try with such great reviews coming out across the bourbon/whiskey community. Although it took a bit to be readily available in NoCo, it can now be found in most stores throughout the area. Overall, this is going to be a bold statement, but Green River Rye now has a permanent spot on my bar cart. This bottle has officially replaced Pikesville Rye as my go-to “everyday” rye; this rye is a must-have for bourbon drinkers. With that said, let’s get our taste on!

• Nose: Fresh Fruit (Apple/Peach), Brown Sugar, Bubble Gum, Honey, Rye Spice, and Cinnamon
• Palate: Apple Juice, Raw Honey, Vanilla, Rye Spice, and Slight Oak
• Finish: Medium to Long with Fuji Apple and Rye Spice
• My Rating: Drink It! (This is going to be a bold statement, but Green River Rye now has a permanent spot on my bar cart. This bottle has officially replaced Pikesville Rye as my go-to “everyday” rye; this rye is a must-have for bourbon drinkers.)

Please remember, drinking bourbon is a personal adventure, so do not be afraid to drink it neat, with ice, or add some water. It’s your bourbon, you bought it, and you should enjoy it how you want to enjoy it!

Cheers! Prost! Sláinte!

Bourbon Bossman™