Rye whiskey is a unique and flavorful type of whiskey that is made primarily from rye grain. While there are many brands that produce rye whiskey, I will highlight a few notable ones that are known for their quality and craftsmanship.
1. Crown Royal Northern Harvest Rye: This Canadian whiskey blend is made from 90 percent rye mash whisky, giving it a distinct and robust flavor profile. It is known for its smoothness and balance, with notes of spice, fruit, and oak. Crown Royal Northern Harvest Rye gained international recognition when it was named the World Whisky of the Year in Jim Murray's Whisky Bible in 2016.
2. WhistlePig: WhistlePig is a premium rye whiskey brand based in Vermont, USA. They are dedicated to producing high-quality rye whiskey using traditional methods. Their flagship product, WhistlePig 10 Year Old, is aged in oak barrels and offers a rich and complex flavor profile with notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice.
3. Rittenhouse Rye: Rittenhouse is a well-respected brand in the world of rye whiskey. They offer a range of rye expressions, including their Bottled-in-Bond and Single Barrel releases. Rittenhouse Rye is often praised for its bold and spicy character, making it a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts.
4. Sazerac Rye: Produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery, Sazerac Rye is a classic American rye whiskey that has been around for over 150 years. It is made from a mash bill of 51 percent rye, giving it a pronounced spiciness. Sazerac Rye is often enjoyed in classic cocktails like the Sazerac and the Manhattan.
5. Old Forester Rye: Old Forester is a historic American whiskey brand that recently introduced a rye expression to their lineup. Old Forester Rye is crafted with a high proportion of rye in the mash bill, resulting in a bold and flavorful whiskey. It showcases notes of caramel, spice, and citrus, making it a versatile choice for sipping or mixing in cocktails.
6. Knob Creek Rye: Knob Creek is well-known for its bourbon, but they also produce a rye whiskey that is worth trying. Knob Creek Rye is aged for at least four years and offers a full-bodied and robust flavor profile. It features notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice, with a long and satisfying finish.
These are just a few examples of rye whiskey brands that are highly regarded in the industry. Each brand offers its own unique take on rye whiskey, allowing for a wide range of flavors and styles to explore. Whether you prefer a smooth and mellow rye or a bold and spicy one, there is likely a brand out there that will suit your taste preferences.