Kieran Walsh, High West’s Whiskey Apostle, explains “Double Rye is for the casual whiskey drinker looking for a quality whiskey suitable for drinking and mixing while Rendezvous is for the whiskey enthusiast.”  We agree.  Rendezvous has every bit of the slightly bitter, spicy bite you want from a rye whiskey.  It is unique in its class because of the high rye content.  To be labeled “straight rye whiskey” requires a minimum of 51% rye.  Rendezvous far exceeds this requirement.  It is a blend of a 6 year old whiskey that is 95% rye and a 16 year old whiskey that is 80% rye.  Because of extended aging, the alcohol is dangerously smooth.  The flavors are broad and complex, layering ripe banana and vanilla with the rye.  Rendezvous is definitely one to sip and savor.

These are two very different renditions of rye whiskey. The example we were given is if you like English peas you will like Double Rye.  Sweeter, less complex, lighter flavors – makes sense.  For lima bean lovers, the earthier flavors of Rendezvous are the ticket.  We like both English peas and lima beans and both whiskeys.  (Don’t worry you do not have to eat your veggies to drink High West!)  We did try them both with food –  quail and savory waffles, a high end take on chicken and waffles- were a hit with both rye whiskeys, especially Rendezvous.  Okay, we admit we like lima beans a little more.