Rieger’s Kansas City Whiskey Review

Distillery: J. Rieger & Company — Kansas City, Missouri

Proof: 92 (46% ABV)

Age: At least four years

Mashbill: Multi-Whiskey Blend (details in the Review)

MSRP: $54

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Who They Are

In 1881, the state of Kansas took a bold step and enacted Prohibtion a full 38 years before the 18th Amendment.  J. Rieger & Company has a rich history dating back to 1887, when it was founded in Kansas City’s West Bottoms Livestock Exchange district which was once known by the moniker “The Wettest Block in The World.”

Renowned for its extensive range of alcoholic products—over 100 offerings—the J. Rieger Distillery quickly became a household name, serving more than a quarter of a million unique customers through its mail-order delivery services.  Learn more about the early beginnings in our Distillery Deep Dive.

However, the arrival of Prohibition in 1919 brought J. Rieger & Co.’s thriving business to an abrupt end. Dormant for nearly a century, the brand’s legacy faded into Kansas City history until 2014, when Andy Rieger, the great-great-great-grandson of the original founder, teamed up with Ryan Maybee, a local bartender and restaurateur. Together, they resurrected the brand, re-establishing it as a cornerstone of Kansas City’s distilling scene.

The new J. Rieger & Co. distillery, located in the East Bottoms neighborhood, is housed in a beautifully restored facility that once held a bustling beer brewery. Visitors can enjoy guided tours along with tastings of the distillery’s many expressions. The space also features an inviting cocktail bar, event venues, and a museum dedicated to the brand’s history and Kansas City’s distilling heritage.

J. Rieger Kansas City Whiskey pays homage to the distillery’s past while embracing modern techniques. This whiskey is a blend of Straight Bourbon, Light Corn, and Straight Rye Whiskeys, each aged for at least four years. A small addition of 15-year-old Oloroso Sherry from Spain’s renowned Williams & Humbert Bodega.

As Kansas City Whiskey is an official designation of the TTB, it is the the additon of Sherry that makes it unique. Olosros Sherry is a fortified wine (wine that has brandy added to it in order to increase the alcohol content). To make the expression even more unique, the Oloroso Sherry is produced in the Sherry Triangle; a small area in southwest Spain.

Bottled at 92 proof, J. Rieger Kansas City Whiskey is versatile and approachable, appealing to both seasoned whiskey enthusiasts and curious newcomers. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, it exemplifies the distillery’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

Rieger’s Kansas City Whiskey Review: Tasting Notes

Nose – 4.5/5

The Nose of J. Rieger Kansas City Whiskey is both intriguing and complex, creating anticipation for a layered tasting experience. Sweet aromas of caramel and vanilla form the foundation, delivering an immediate sense of comfort and familiarity. The influence of the blended Oloroso Sherry is unmistakable, adding fruity and woody dimensions reminiscent of raisins and figs. Together, these elements set high expectations for the first of many sips.

Palate – 4/5

From the first sip, J. Rieger Kansas City Whiskey delivers a rich and velvety mouthfeel, revealing indulgent notes of caramel and dark chocolate for a sweet and satisfying entry. As the flavors evolve, the Sherry influence becomes more pronounced, introducing dried fruit notes that add depth and complexity. A slightly smoky character emerges, complemented by warm spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. The 92 proof is well-integrated, offering a gentleness that allows the intricate flavors to shine without overwhelming the palate.

Finish – 4/5

The Finish is long and memorable, leaving a lasting impression of warmth and complexity. As the flavors fade, lingering notes of oak and spice remain. Subtle touches of dried apricots emerge, adding a fruity richness to the aftertaste. With no harshness or bitterness and a smooth, delicate conclusion, the Finish leaves you craving another sip.

Value – 4/5

At just $54, J. Rieger Kansas City Whiskey delivers exceptional value. The addition of Oloroso Sherry creates a unique depth and sweetness, making this whiskey a standout in its price range.

Rieger’s Kansas City Whiskey: The Verdict

Many times during my whiskey hunts, I’ve passed by J. Rieger Kansas City Whiskey. I’ll admit, the “Kansas City Whiskey” labeling led me to turn up my nose.  It was a distillery visit and tasting that I turned me onto this hidden gem.

For enthusiasts, this expression may become an oft go-to sipper. Its unique tie to pre-Prohibition traditions and its complex profile makes it a standout addition to any collection. For rookies, J. Rieger Kansas City Whiskey offers an excellent introduction to nuanced, high-quality whiskey at an approachable price point.

Verdict – 4/5

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