By Richard Thomas
Rating: A-
(Credit: Richard Thomas)
When I realized The Whiskey Reviewer has been covering Remus Repeal Reserve, which is basically a showcase for the bourbons made by MGP in Indiana, from the beginning, I thought “wild.” We have not gotten every single expression and I personally did not review them all, but we were there for the first one and now the series has reached its tenth installment. I’m often amazed by the perspective becomes after covering whiskey for a decade and a half.
As is common in blends of stock of this type, the single largest constituent is also the youngest: a 49% chunk of MGP’s barely bourbon, ultra high rye 51% corn recipe from 2017. Youngest, yes, but not “young.” Nine years old is quite mature. Two batches of the high rye (36% rye) were also used, from 2014 and 2016, comprising 54% of the whole between them. Finally, two lots of traditional bourbon (21% rye) from 2014 and 2008 make up the rest. Remus Repeal Reserve X (2026) is bottled at 107 proof.
The Bourbon
The nose on this staple-colored, middle amber bourbon ran with toffee, caramel and Cream of Wheat. The palate led with its sweet side, vanilla and blackberry-infused simple syrup, and a kick of spicy, seasoned wood, like the kind French oak delivers. The proof starts to show on the finish, giving a pinch of heat tied to the lingering spicy wood. Overall, this is a robust, balanced bourbon that hits a mark above what I had expected from previous Remus Repeal Reserves. If you see it at MSRP, snatch it.
The Price
This bottle is listed at $80.
