Rebel Bourbon 6 Year 100 Proof Review – The Keith Richards Whiskey with Rock ‘n’ Roll History
Rebel 100 6 Year
What do Keith Richards, Billy Idol, and Stitzel-Weller have in common?
Apparently, a damn fine pour of Rebel Bourbon—and one hell of a legacy. In this Tortured Bourbon episode, Heather and B dig into the rebellious history, rock ‘n’ roll roots, and wheated wonder of Rebel Bourbon 6 Year 100 Proof.
From Honky-Tonks to Rock Anthems: The Rebel Story
Born in 1936 at the legendary Stitzel-Weller Distillery—home of Pappy Van Winkle, Old Fitzgerald, and Weller—Rebel Bourbon (originally Rebel Yell) didn’t start in the spotlight. But it got there. Thanks to one Keith Richards, who reportedly drank it like water during The Rolling Stones’ 1980s tours, and one Billy Idol, who borrowed the bottle name for his iconic hit Rebel Yell, this bourbon became a backstage staple.
Fast-forward to 2020, and Rebel Yell became simply Rebel Bourbon—dropping the “Yell,” modernizing the label, and keeping the juice. In 2021, it landed under the wing of MGP, one of the largest whiskey producers in the world.
Heather: “So after all these years, Rebel Bourbon is still kickin’—just like Keith Richards.”
B: “And unlike Rolling Stones tickets, it’s surprisingly affordable.”
Bourbon by the Numbers
Age: 6 Years
Proof: 100 (50% ABV)
Style: Wheated Bourbon
Mash Bill: 68% Corn, 20% Wheat, 12% Malted Barley
Distiller: Lux Row (now owned by MGP)
Price: ~$30–$40
Availability: Widely distributed
This 6-year 100 proof wheater is a bold, budget-friendly pour that holds its own against higher-priced competitors.
What’s on the Nose?
Heather’s Breakdown
Caramel and vanilla—classic wheater sweetness
Brown sugar and honey—richer than standard Rebel
Light oak and cinnamon from the 6-year age
“It smells like the guy at the bar who tells you he used to be in a band—and you kinda believe him.”
How Does It Taste?
B’s Palate Play-by-Play
Up front: honeyed sweetness, buttercream, and toffee
Mid-palate: cinnamon warmth, baking spice
Finish: medium length with oak, vanilla, and a touch of pepper
“It’s friendly up front but leaves with a little heat—kind of like that roadie you regret ghosting.”
How Does It Stack Up?
Wheated bourbons are often compared to:
Weller Special Reserve (soft and sweet)
Larceny Small Batch (budget-friendly with punch)
Maker’s Mark (easy to find, classic profile)
Rebel Bourbon 6 Year 100 Proof might not have the cult hype of Weller, but it brings a surprising level of complexity and depth—especially for the price.
Rock ‘n’ Roll Credentials
Launched at Stitzel-Weller, the cradle of wheated bourbon royalty
Endorsed by Keith Richards during The Rolling Stones’ 1980s tours
Inspired Billy Idol’s “Rebel Yell”
Rebranded in 2020 for a modern audience
Owned by MGP, one of America’s top whiskey producers
“This bourbon doesn’t just have history—it has a soundtrack.”
The Final Pour: Where Does Rebel Land?
On the Tortured Bourbon scale, this 6-year, 100-proof wheated rebel earns solid praise:
Heather: “It’s balanced, bold, and doesn’t take itself too seriously. That Dog Will Hunt.”
B: “It brings enough flavor to sip neat but won’t punch you in the wallet. Hush Your Mouth worthy, especially if you’re a rock ‘n’ roll romantic.”
Watch the Full Episode
🎥 Click here to watch the review on YouTube
Expect tasting notes, music rants, whiskey history, and maybe a Billy Idol impression you didn’t ask for.
Got a Bourbon Request?
👇 Let us know in the comments or message us on social media. This episode came from a viewer request—thanks, Austin! Whether you’re into NASCAR, rock, or wheated bourbons with a past, we got you.
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📸 Instagram: @TorturedBourbon
🌐 Website: torturedbourbon.com
Cheers to the Rebels
It may have dropped the “Yell,” but Rebel Bourbon still screams rock ‘n’ roll—with real heritage, great flavor, and enough kick to make even Keith nod in approval.
