Barreling Bayou Brilliance: Whiskey Tree’s 99-Point High Rye Rises

In the ever-expanding world of craft bourbon, few names have emerged as quickly and confidently as Whiskey Tree. With deep Southern roots, a double gold pedigree, and a 99 – point seal of approval from the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, this high rye bourbon is blazing a trail through the spirits scene.

A Journey from Kentucky to the Bayou

Whiskey Tree High Rye Bourbon begins in Kentucky, where its high rye mashbill (60% corn, 36% rye, 4% malted barley) is distilled with classic precision. But what sets it apart is where the story continues: in New Orleans. There, under the watchful eye of revered master blender Nancy Fraley, each barrel is finished to perfection, drawing character from the Crescent City’s humid air and cultural soul.

What’s in the Glass?

A glass of rye bourbon sitting on a table with an orange, a sugar cookie, a graham cracker, a cinnamon roll, and a few cinnamon sticks. — A Glencairn glass of Whiskey Tree High Rye Bourbon sits among flavor cues like cinnamon rolls, sugar cookies, orange slices, and graham crackers — a rich visual pairing that reflects the bourbon’s warm, spiced, and dessert-like tasting profile.

This bourbon is as expressive as its heritage. On the nose, you’ll discover warm notes of buttery cathead biscuits drizzled with cinnamon applesauce and hints of sugar cookies dusted with chocolate sprinkles. The palate follows through with rich waves of cinnamon rolls glazed in orange icing, complemented by the softness of white cake frosting, the earthiness of freshly baked rye bread, and a touch of delicate brown baking spice. The finish is smooth and refined, with gentle oak, vanilla bean, and a velvety finesse that lingers gracefully.

The Awards Speak Volumes

A bottle of a San Francisco World Spirits Competition Best of Class Finalist, Whiskey Tree High Rye Bourbon.

Earning a 99-point score at San Francisco’s prestigious competition puts Whiskey Tree in elite company. Double Gold means every judge awarded it top marks. That kind of acclaim doesn’t come easy — but then again, this isn’t just any bourbon.

A Bottle That Stands Tall

A bottle of Whiskey Tree High Rye Bourbon next to a half-filled glass.

Beyond its taste, Whiskey Tree High Rye is a visual stunner. The label features a moonlit cypress tree — a nod to the bootlegger lore of the Honey Island Swamp. It’s more than a bottle; it’s a conversation starter, a collector’s piece, and a sip of something storied.

Time to Taste What the Buzz Is About

With limited availability and word-of-mouth hype building fast, now is the time to experience this bayou-born brilliance for yourself. Whether you’re a collector, a connoisseur, or a curious newcomer, Whiskey Tree High Rye Bourbon offers something rare: a bottle with both backbone and soul. Click here to learn more.