The Owensboro Distillery Puts its Own Spin on the “95-5” Rye Whiskey
We recently sat down with Green River Distilling Co.’s Head Distiller, Aaron Harris, on Episode 271 of Bourbon Lens. During that episode, we tasted their newest whiskey. As the third installment in distillery’s core lineup of whiskey, Green River Straight Rye Whiskey was introduced in January 2024. Priced at $34.99, Green River aims to have this rye (and their bourbons) on everyone’s bar cart. So, how does it hold up in today’s market of sometimes ambiguous “95-5” Rye Whiskey?
Just the Facts: Green River Straight Rye Whiskey
- Style: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
- Mashbill: 95% Rye; 5% Malted Barley
- Proof: 95 Proof (47.5% ABV)
- Age: At least 4 years old (up to 6 years)
- Price: $34.99
Tasting Notes: Green River Straight Rye Whiskey
Nose: orange peel, cinnamon, vanilla, and waffle cone
Palate: clover honey, orange candies and orange oil. Sweet green tea and hoppy beer. Happy to report I do not get the fresh cut/green grass note I typically find in “95-5 Rye” whiskeys.
Finish: the finish is short, light and crisp.
Closing Thoughts:
It is hard to go wrong with the core lineup from Green River Distilling Co. Whether it’s the high rye bourbon, wheated bourbon, or this new rye whiskey, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better value in the market. Green River produces high quality whiskies that pack in familiar flavors which highlight the grains and which show a good amount of age for their price point.
Listen to Bourbon Lens on your favorite podcast app or stream on Spotify. If you’d like to support Bourbon Lens, subscribe to our Patreon, sign up for our “Weekly Pour” Newsletter, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
If you like cocktails, subscribe to our second podcast, Cocktails with Friends. Cocktails with Friends is hosted by our good friend and partner, Bob Cutler.
Recent Bourbon Lens Coverage
- Pendleton 1910 Bourbon: New Whiskey, A Decade in the Making
- Southern Distilling Company Limited Edition Southern Star Bourbon Finished in Honey Barrels
- Laws Whiskey House Introduces Two New Limited Edition Finished Whiskeys
- Michter’s Announces Release of its Rare 20 Year Kentucky Bourbon After Hiatus
- No, Not Get Wasted – We Literally Mean “Get Basted” with Skrewball Whiskey This Thanksgiving
- Milam & Greene Whiskey New Cooper’s Hawk Single Barrel Bourbon
