An Honest Review of High West Whiskey’s Core Lineup

High West Distillery, nestled in the heart of Utah, has earned a loyal following thanks to its inventive blends and commitment to the American West's spirit. If you're curious about what each bottle offers, here’s a breakdown of some of their most iconic and flavorful whiskeys.

American Prairie Bourbon – Balanced and Approachable

This bourbon combines straight bourbons aged 2 to 13 years. It delivers an inviting bouquet of caramel, honey, and subtle spice. Smooth and slightly sweet, it suits those new to bourbon yet has enough complexity to impress seasoned drinkers. The finish is vanilla-forward, with a touch of dried fruit.

Double Rye! – Sharp, Peppery, and Bold

Double Rye! lives up to its name. It's a dynamic mix of young and older rye whiskeys, resulting in intense herbal and spicy notes. Green pepper, mint, and cloves dominate the nose and palate. The younger rye provides energetic bite, while the aged component adds depth, making it ideal for sipping or in classic cocktails like the Manhattan.

Campfire – A Unique Blend of Smoke and Sweet

Campfire stands out for its inclusion of peated Scotch whisky along with bourbon and rye. This trio creates a surprising harmony: the peat smoke upfront gives way to rich maple, honey-roasted nuts, and cinnamon. It’s not for everyone, but fans of smoky drams will find it compelling and layered.

Rendezvous Rye – A Premium Rye Experience

Originally High West’s flagship rye, this blend of older rye whiskeys brings a more refined profile. It’s rich in flavor with cinnamon, dark chocolate, orange zest, and a velvety mouthfeel. Recent batches lean towards more mature and luxurious expressions, appealing to high-end rye enthusiasts.

A Midwinter Night’s Dram – Seasonal Elegance

Released in annual "acts", this limited-edition rye whiskey is finished in Port and French oak casks, creating a whiskey that's dark, fruity, and perfumed. Notes of spiced plum, fig, and toasted cinnamon make it a warming winter treat, perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.

Bourye – Best of Both Worlds

Bourye is a fusion of bourbon and rye that surprisingly doesn’t taste like a compromise. Instead, it carries the sweetness and roundness of bourbon with the spice and zest of rye. Expect flavors of nougat, pecan, and baking spice. It’s a complex whiskey that feels polished and contemplative.

High Country Single Malt – A Western Take on Tradition

High West’s single malt offers an American twist on the category, with a mix of peated and unpeated malt whiskeys. It’s earthy and oaky, featuring roasted nuts, leather, cocoa, and light smoke. A bold choice for fans of single malts looking for something distinctly American.

Barrel Select Variants – Customized Perfection

Select retailers and bars may offer custom barrel selections of High West expressions. These often showcase unique characteristics – higher proof, longer aging or specific cask finishes. If you encounter a Barrel Select bottle, it’s worth trying for its exclusivity and unexpected depth.

What Makes High West Special?

High West blends whiskeys from various sources and ages with transparency and intention. Situated in Park City, it's the first legal distillery in Utah since Prohibition. Their innovative style bridges tradition and experimentation, making them a staple in the craft whiskey scene.

For deeper industry insights on American whiskey evolution, check out Whiskey Advocate (opens in new tab).

Common Questions Answered

Which High West whiskey is best for beginners?

American Prairie Bourbon is approachable and smooth, ideal for those just starting to explore whiskey.

Is Double Rye good for cocktails?

Yes, its bold spice makes it perfect for classic rye cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan.

Is Campfire whiskey really smoky?

Yes, it has noticeable peat smoke thanks to the Scotch component, balanced by sweet and spicy bourbon and rye.

Why is A Midwinter Night’s Dram so popular?

Its rich, port-finished profile and limited release make it a favorite among collectors and connoisseurs.

Are High West whiskeys sourced or distilled in-house?

High West discloses sourcing but also distills their own whiskey. Many releases blend both approaches for complexity.