Blue Run Emerald II Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey

Blue Run Emerald II Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey is the third rye release in Blue Run’s Emerald line. This small-batch Kentucky straight rye brings together 212 barrels aged in varied locations throughout the rickhouses, a selection the producer credits with creating a balanced profile. Blue Run describes Emerald II as sweeter and more rounded than Emerald I while retaining rye’s characteristic spice and the smoothness and depth associated with aged bourbon. It is bottled at 54.85% ABV / 109.7 proof in a 750 mL bottle.

The nose opens with butterscotch and tropical fruit, including a grilled-pineapple note that the producer compares to rum-based pineapple. Maraschino cherry leads the palate before mango juice adds a ripe, rounded sweetness. Wood spice follows, giving the whiskey structure and contrast without overwhelming its fruit-forward character. The finish is full and fruity, building steadily as the cherry, mango, and spice elements carry forward. Together, the sweeter opening and developing oak spice give Emerald II a layered progression from aroma through finish.