Distillery: Distilled in Kentucky by an unnamed distillery
Proof: 105.0 (52.5% ABV)
Age: At least five years in Kentucky plus a six-week transatlantic voyage plus one year at White Peak Distillery in England
Mashbill: 56% Rye, 33% Corn, 11% Malted Barley
MSRP: $85
Who Are They
The story of Never Say Die begins in 1951 with a struggling Kentucky foal brought back to life when its owner poured bourbon down its throat. Named “Never Say Die,” the colt went on to defy 33-to-1 odds, winning the Epsom Derby in 1954—the first American-born horse to win in 70 years. His victory even helped fund Liverpool’s Casbah Coffee Club, a key launchpad for The Beatles.
Never Say Die Rye mirrors that bold journey. Distilled in Kentucky, it matures five years before crossing the Atlantic for a year of aging in England’s cooler climate. This unique process delivers a whiskey worthy of the legend that inspired it.
Never Say Die Rye Whiskey Review: Tasting Notes
Nose – 4.5/5
Hints of peppermint are layered with caramel sweetness. Subtle baking spice, toasted oak, and a touch of citrus round out the profile.
Palate – 4.5/5
Bold flavors of cracked black pepper and cinnamon heat dominate. Beneath is toffee and honey. Medium-bodied mouthfeel that is engaging.
Finish – 4.5/5
Long peppery tingle that wakes up your senses but is not overwhelming even for bourbon lovers. Charred oak and a dryness emerges at the end.
Value – 4.25/5
MSRP – $85. Never Say Die Rye Whiskey sits in the premium category. You can purchase with confidence of getting a high-quality expression. The balance of strong pepper spice with subtle sweetness makes it versatile to serve neat or in a cocktail. I found a splash of water brings enhances the sweet elements but be careful because it’s a fine line between just enough and too much water.
Never Say Die Rye Whiskey Review: The Verdict
Never Say Die Rye Whiskey is a worthy addition to a seasoned rye drinker’s collection. For newbies, I suggest taking a pass and looking for a slightly less bold rye. As a gift for a whiskey lover, this is a great choice.
Verdict – 4.5/5
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
Mike Long is a staff writer at Bourbon Inspector and has an Executive Bourbon Steward designation from the Stave and Thief Society. He’s a former “wine guy” who discovered his love for bourbon years back at a spur-of-the-moment bourbon tasting he attended. He also loves traveling throughout America with his wife of over 37 years, Debby.