High Bank Distillery War Barrel Proof Whiskey

Overview

High Bank Distillery Whiskey War is a blended straight rye whiskey from the Columbus, Ohio-based distillery, combining high-rye straight whiskies with a presumed corn-based component to deliver a balanced, versatile profile at an accessible price point. It exemplifies the distillery's blending expertise for a product that performs well across multiple serving styles despite its youth.

Specs at a glance

Good to know

High Bank Distillery, co-founded by Adam Hines, draws inspiration from a motorcycle journey through Kentucky and Tennessee rickhouses, including Jack Daniel's. The distillery name references the 1812 founding of Columbus on the "High Banks" along the Scioto River. Sharing space with a full-service restaurant, it emphasizes value-driven releases like this sub-$40 MSRP bottle, showcasing skillful blending from a young operation.

Tasting notes

• Nose: Balanced rye spice with subtle corn sweetness, reflecting the blend's high-rye dominance without overpowering intensity.
• Palate: Rye-forward with integrated oak from four-plus years of aging; offers approachable spice and mild sweetness, though smoothness shows minor inconsistencies typical of young blends.
• Finish: Medium-length, fading rye pepper and barrel char; clean enough for versatility.

Notable details

• Production: Distilled to high proof as white whiskey, aged minimum four years in new charred oak for straight designation.
• Lineage: From High Bank Distillery (est. 2018), a craft operation prioritizing blending over full sourced transparency.
• Availability: MSRP $38.99 / 750 ml; strong value positioning in the affordable rye category.

Serving suggestions

Versatile neat, on ice, or in cocktails, where it integrates without dominating other flavors.

"High Bank Distillery Whiskey War is a solid, affordable blended rye that shines in cocktails despite minor flaws in smoothness and disclosure." – Thirty One Whiskey

A reliable everyday rye for mixing or casual sipping, underscoring emerging Ohio distilling talent.

Sources

[1] Thirtyonewhiskey – "Whiskey Review: High Bank Distillery Whiskey War"

[2] Thewhiskeywash – "Whiskey Reviews: High Bank Whiskey War, Whiskey War Barrel Proof"

[3] Thewhiskeywash – "High Bank Whiskey War Review: Comparing Standard and Barrel Proof Expressions"

[4] Columbusbourbon – "OHLQ Announces High Bank Whiskey War Double Oaked - Arriving Week of 10/31"

[5] Columbusbourbon – "OHLQ Announces High Bank Whiskey War Single Barrel Collection - Hitting Shelves Week of 11/13"

[6] Thewhiskeywash – "High Bank Whiskey Review: Midnight Cask & Barrel Proof Editions"

[7] Thewhiskeywash – "High Bank Whiskey Review: Midnight Cask & Barrel Proof Editions"

[8] Breakingbourbon – "Whiskey War Review | Breaking Bourbon"

[9] Breakingbourbon – "Whiskey War Barrel Proof Review | Breaking Bourbon"

[10] Thewhiskeywash – "Whiskey War Barrel Select Batch #12 Review: Oloroso Sherry Finish"