Rebel Yell

Whiskey Review/Tasting: Rebel Yell

Physical Whisky Characteristics

  • Origin: Louisville, Kentucky, USA.
  • Type: Wheated Bourbon.
  • Distillation and Maturation Process: Distilled and aged by Rebel Yell Distillery, though it's suggested that it might actually be produced by Heaven Hill Distillery in Bernheim, Louisville, Kentucky.
  • Age Statement: Not specified in the transcript.
  • Color and Clarity: Not described in the transcript.
  • Bottle Design: Comes in a nice glass bottle but with a plastic cork.

Whisky Flavor Profile

  • General Profile: Typical bourbon aroma with a very big odor.
  • Balance of Flavors: A bit sharper than usual bourbons, with a balance between sweetness and a mixture of honey and vanilla.
  • Unique Characteristics: Noted for not having a distinctive characteristic that makes it exceptionally smooth or spicy. The wheated aspect is not very pronounced.
  • Comparison: No direct comparisons to other whiskies, but it's implied that it's somewhat typical of bourbons with its vanilla and buttery notes, albeit sharper.

Whisky Storytelling

  • Historical Context: The name "Rebel Yell" references the Confederate states during the Civil War, specifically celebrating a victory at the Battle of Chickamauga. The distillery's founding predates this battle by 14 years.
  • Anecdotes: The host expresses confusion about the distillery's location and ownership, initially associating it with Buffalo Trace due to the W.L. Weller name but ultimately deducing it's likely produced by Heaven Hill.

Cultural or Geographical Significance

  • Civil War Reference: The whisky's name and backstory are deeply tied to the American Civil War, specifically the Confederate side, which adds a layer of historical and cultural significance.
  • Kentucky Origin: Being produced in Louisville, Kentucky, situates Rebel Yell within a region known for its bourbon production, further emphasizing its American heritage.

Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes

  • "Smells like typical bourbon."
  • "A bit sharper than the usual bourbon that I have tried before."
  • "It's a good bourbon whiskey that you can enjoy."

Summary

  • Rebel Yell is a wheated bourbon from Louisville, Kentucky, likely produced by Heaven Hill.
  • It offers a typical bourbon flavor profile with a sharper edge, featuring vanilla and buttery notes, and a balance between sweetness and a mix of honey and vanilla.
  • The whisky's name and story are linked to the Confederate side of the Civil War, adding historical significance.
  • Despite its glass bottle, it comes with a plastic cork, and the distillery's exact details seem a bit elusive.
  • It's described as a good, enjoyable bourbon without any distinctive characteristics that make it exceptionally smooth or spicy.

Recommendations for Different User Profiles

  • Bourbon Enthusiasts: Individuals with a preference for bourbon will likely appreciate Rebel Yell's typical flavor profile and sharper edge.
  • History Buffs: Those interested in American history, especially the Civil War era, might find the backstory and name of Rebel Yell particularly engaging.
  • Casual Drinkers: Given its lack of overly distinctive characteristics, Rebel Yell could be a good choice for casual drinkers looking to explore bourbon without venturing into more extreme flavor profiles.