Bulleit 87 Blend of Bourbon and Rye Whiskeys Finished with Toasted Staves

Bulleit ’87 puts bourbon and rye in the same glass. It’s a 90-proof American whiskey with plenty of character.

The construction is unusually deliberate, with each whiskey aging separately before toasted American and French oak staves add caramelized depth and baking-spice warmth. After four to six weeks of finishing, the bourbon and rye come together in Shelbyville, creating a layered pour that feels polished without losing its frontier edge.

There’s substance here, but it never feels ponderous. Brown sugar and caramel bring the sweetness, while rye spice and toasted oak keep the profile lively, making ’87 especially appealing for slow sipping.

Nose: Caramel and vanilla lead. Brown sugar, cinnamon, allspice, and toasted oak follow, creating a warm, slightly charred aroma with an inviting bakery-like richness.

Palate: Dark chocolate and toasted marshmallow take center stage. Beneath them, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and lively rye spice give the whiskey a savory, gently peppery edge.

Finish: The warmth lingers nicely. Toasted oak, cocoa, caramelized sugar, and soft rye spice gradually recede, leaving a balanced finish that’s sweet, dry, and pleasantly warming.

Barbecue is a natural companion. Smoked brisket, ribs, grilled pork, and burgers bring out the whiskey’s caramel, toasted oak, and baking-spice character.

Rich desserts work beautifully too. Try pecan pie, caramelized apples, dark chocolate, or crème brûlée when the meal calls for something sweeter and more indulgent.