Military Rye Review: Buzzards Roost Char #1 Rye

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History – Since Bourbon’s Bistro first opened its doors back in 2005, Jason Brauner has been deeply immersed in the rich tapestry of Kentucky’s bourbon culture. Through his dynamic single barrel program at the bistro, he has forged invaluable connections with the state’s leading master distillers. This hands-on engagement has not only deepened his expertise but has also earned admiration from industry veterans like Jim Rutledge, who lauded Brauner’s passion and discerning palate, suggesting his potential as a protege for future ventures.

Empowered by his growing knowledge and unwavering enthusiasm, Brauner’s journey in the whiskey world has evolved from retailing to the ambitious goal of crafting his own spirits. This aspiration found a perfect partner in Judith Hollis Jones, whose extensive culinary background and profound appreciation for Kentucky’s whiskey heritage made her an ideal collaborator. Assuming the role of CEO at Buzzard’s Roost, the Louisville-based enterprise driving Brauner’s whiskey-making dreams, Jones brings her global business savvy and culinary finesse to the table.

Their partnership is a fusion of expertise and passion, with Brauner’s bourbon craftsmanship complemented by Jones’ culinary insights. A true Kentuckian, Jones’s upbringing instilled in her a deep reverence for the state’s whiskey tradition, while her culinary versatility adds a unique flavor to Buzzard’s Roost. Moreover, her role on the board of Les Dames d’Escoffier International underscores her stature in the culinary world, further enriching the brand’s cultural tapestry.

Together, Brauner and Jones are not only building Buzzard’s Roost into a thriving enterprise but also fostering a community around their shared love for whiskey and culinary arts. From managing supply chains to establishing distribution networks, from nurturing investor relations to driving culinary innovation, their collaboration embodies partnership and ingenuity, propelling Buzzard’s Roost towards a bright future as a cornerstone of Kentucky’s whiskey heritage. Let’s dig in!

Value – The value of this I think is very fair. I have drank many whiskeys that don’t have this in depth taste to it that cost way more.

Appearance – Wine bottle and these delicate well thought out labels with the buzzard protruding from the label itself. Very very nice presentation.

Nose – Clove / Hickory / Pumpernickel Bread

Palate – Coffee / Gingerbread / Waffles and super thick on the tongue

Finish – Springtime / Pistachio / Bold with a cooling on the tongue and throat that lasts for about 10 seconds.

Summary – The review provides a detailed look into Jason Brauner’s immersion in Kentucky’s bourbon culture since 2005, particularly through Bourbon’s Bistro and his single barrel program. His close ties with master distillers, including praise from industry veteran Jim Rutledge, highlight Brauner’s passion and potential as a leader in the industry. Transitioning to crafting his own spirits, Brauner partnered with Judith Hollis Jones, CEO of Buzzard’s Roost, whose culinary background and reverence for Kentucky’s whiskey heritage complement his expertise.

Together, Brauner and Jones are building Buzzard’s Roost into a community-driven enterprise, blending whiskey craftsmanship with culinary insights. They handle various aspects of the business, from supply chains to investor relations, embodying partnership and innovation. The whiskey itself is praised for its value, presentation, and flavor profile, with notes ranging from clove and hickory to coffee and gingerbread, culminating in a bold finish with a refreshing cooling sensation.

“Overall, Buzzard’s Roost aims to become a cornerstone of Kentucky’s whiskey heritage, fueled by Brauner and Jones’s shared passion and ingenuity.”

– Andrew Workman

Uniqueness- 1-10 – 2

Appearance- 1-10 – 8

Nose- 1-20 – 15

Palate- 1-20 – 20

Finish- 1-20 – 17

Value- 1-20 – 18