Whiskey JYPSI Legacy Batch 003 Review: Worth $200?

BOTTLE DETAILS

• DISTILLER: Not disclosed, but each in this trio are from Indiana, Canada and Virginia
• MASH BILL: Not disclosed, but it's made of a blend of:
  • 60% Rye – 8–12-year-old 95/5 rye sourced from Indiana
  • 30% Corn – 20–25-year-old Canadian corn whiskey, re-barreled in new American oak for 2.5 years
  • 10% Malt – 8-year-old American single malt from Virginia
• AGE: 8 years old overall, but it contains 12-year-old rye and 25-year-old corn whiskey
• YEAR: 2025
• PROOF: 115.74 (57.87 ABV)
• MSRP: $199.99
• BUY ONLINE: Whiskey JYPSI Bottle Shop

STEVE'S NOTES

SHARE WITH: Any American whiskey fan, but especially those who love American rye. That whiskey really shines through in this blend of corn and American single malt whiskies.

WORTH THE PRICE: It's really good, but $200 is steep for me. For those who call $200 an affordable price, you'll be pleased you bought it.

BOTTLE, BAR OR BUST: Bottle. If you're buying, get all of it. Heaven knows a bar might charge $50 a pour for it.

OVERALL: I admit that I cringed years ago when I heard famed country and rock musician Eric Church is the founder of this brand. I have nothing against him or his music, but let's admit it, celebrity bottles nearly always disappoint or sell for undeservedly absurd prices.

But after hearing others sing its praises and then tasting this release myself, I have to admit this bottle, at least, doesn't deserve that assumption. This is excellent whiskey, and the liquid contortions conducted to make it so had to have been a challenge.

In this blend of rye whiskey, Canadian corn whiskey and American single malt whiskey lies a lot of depth, character and richness. Whiskey maker Ari Sussman knows what he's doing in juggling three highly divergent liquid streams and unique barrel selections to create such a balanced dram. The rye was finished in apple brandy barrels, and the Canadian corn whiskey was rebarreled and aged an additional 2-and-a-half years in new American oak.

The nose is bright and fruity, almost candied. Ripe strawberry, candied cherry and honey (credit the ASM for that) lead off before tobacco, dried figs, leather and molasses enter the space (credit that to the rebarreling into new American oak).

It takes control of the palate from the first sip to the last and in waves of spice, sweetness and dark fruit move from front to back, drying the path ever so slightly as it slithers down the gullet. It is amazingly rich, full bodied and textured, a whiskey practically begging for a fire grilled aged ribeye steak. The proof is more than a suitable match for the beef.

If you're looking for an indulgent purchase, consider this if you can find it. It is without flaws and endlessly drinkable.

BRAND NOTES

"The Declaration" is a layered expression of American whiskey’s past and future; a thoughtful commemoration built from aged whiskeys, historical reconstruction, and a collaboration that bridges centuries. “To mark the 250th anniversary, we wanted to make something that is more than a commemorative bottle; it's a testament to the grit, restlessness and innovation that built this
country,” says co-founder, Eric Church.

Disclaimer: Bourbon & Banter received a sample of this product from the brand for review. We appreciate their willingness to allow us to review their products with no strings attached. Thank you.