High n’ Wicked Kentucky Straight Bourbon Review

Distillery: Distillery undisclosed. Bottled by High n’ Wicked—Harrodsburg, KY

Proof: 104.0 (52.0% ABV)

Age: Five Years

Mashbill: 51% Corn, 39% Rye, 10% Malted Barley

MSRP: $73

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Tamed—Not Broken

High n’ Wicked is a relatively new name.  The brand launched in 2020 with a portfolio focused on limited-production global-sourced whiskeys. While its lineup includes from the common, Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey and Kentucky to Straight Bourbon Whiskey to the obscure such as No.6-The Judge, a 14-year bourbon finished in ex-Hungarian Tokaji Casks or the No.8-The Jury, a 15-year bourbon  finished in ex-Tinta Negra Madeira Casks.  Add a full range of Irish whiskeys, and you’ve got a brand that bucks the conventional.

But not this one.

Distilled in Kentucky and aged for five years, High n’ Wicked Kentucky Straight Bourbon rides a straighter line.  Bottled at 104 proof and a rye content nearly twice what’s found in many “mainstream” bourbons—you’d expect this one to kick hard.  And yet, the pour reveals a whiskey that’s lively, not unruly.

With a mashbill identical to that of Remus Highest Rye, it positions itself among other high-rye expressions but takes a more refined approach to its presentation.  While the distillery of origin remains undisclosed, High n’ Wicked makes a point of declaring it is Kentucky distilled from Kentucky-grown corn and rye—presumably a statement intended to set it apart from Ross & Squibb (aka MGP) maker of the Remus brand.

High n’ Wicked Kentucky Straight Bourbon Review: Tasting Notes

Nose – 4/5

The Nose opens with roasted peanut shell, leather, and dried cherry. A soft layer that makes me think wooden tea storage box adds some dry, herbal warmth, while fresh and tangy citrus notes lift the Nose keeping it bright.

Palate – 4.5/5

The Palate begins with dark caramel and black tea, followed by a steady wave of cinnamon.  A delicacy of mild and bright white pepper mixed with the sharp, slightly pungent and spice of black pepper makes for a wonderfully rich Palate.  The mouthfeel is firm and coating, delivering a sip that leans more savory than sweet. You can embrace the rye from start to finish.

Finish – 4.5/5

The Finish is dry and spice-forward, with notes of leather, burnt sugar, and a flash of dry mint. It lands with precision, and while it doesn’t linger endlessly, the flavors close in sync.

Value – 4/5

At $73, High n’ Wicked sits firmly at a premium price tier for a five-year-old bourbon. While the age statement may feel modest for the price, the execution justifies it. The high rye mashbill, sweet mash fermentation, and non-chill filtration create a profile that delivers a bourbon that drinks above its age statement. This may not become an everyday drinker for most buyers—but it’s a satisfying one if you are looking to explore a balanced sweet-savory structure.

High n’ Wicked Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey may wear a name that suggests wildness, but this isn’t a bronco looking to throw you. It bucks just enough to keep your attention, then settles into a balanced rhythm. For those who prefer strength without swagger, tension not turmoil, this bottle earns its place in the lineup—and maybe on your shelf.

High n’ Wicked Kentucky Straight Bourbon Review: The Verdict

With the same mashbill as Remus Highest Rye, comparisons are inevitable. Remus delivers its punch at higher proof and a lower price, while High n’ Wicked takes a more measured approach.

High n’ Wicked Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey may wear a name that suggests wildness, but this isn’t a bronco looking to throw you. It bucks just enough to keep your attention, then settles into a balanced rhythm. For those who prefer strength without swagger, tension not turmoil, this bottle earns its place in the lineup—and maybe on your shelf.

Verdict – 2.75/5

We score each bourbon based on nose, palate, finish, and value.

Scoring System:

• Platinum – 4.5 – 5
• Gold – 4 – 4.5
• Silver – 3 – 4
• Bronze – <3