Heaven Hill Distillery, a well-known and respected name in the world of whiskey, is the proud owner of the Rittenhouse Straight Rye Whisky brand. This acquisition took place back in 1999, a time when the popularity of whiskey was on the decline. It was a bold move by Heaven Hill to invest in a brand that was facing challenging times, but they saw the potential in Rittenhouse and believed in its quality and heritage.
At that time, I was working in the industry as a sommelier and brewer, and I remember the general sentiment was that whiskey was losing its appeal. Vodka and other spirits were gaining popularity, and many distilleries were struggling to stay afloat. However, Heaven Hill saw something special in Rittenhouse and recognized its value.
Rittenhouse Straight Rye Whisky has a long history that dates back to the early 20th century. It was originally produced by the Rittenhouse Distillery, which was established in Philadelphia in 1868. The brand gained a reputation for its high-quality rye whiskey and became a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts.
However, like many distilleries during that time, the Rittenhouse Distillery faced financial difficulties and was eventually forced to close its doors. Fortunately, Heaven Hill stepped in and saved the brand from disappearing altogether. They recognized the importance of preserving the legacy of Rittenhouse and ensuring that its exceptional rye whiskey would continue to be enjoyed by whiskey lovers for years to come.
Heaven Hill Distillery, founded in 1935 and based in Kentucky, has a rich history of producing premium spirits. They are known for their commitment to quality and craftsmanship, and their acquisition of Rittenhouse was a testament to their dedication to preserving the heritage of American whiskey.
Since acquiring Rittenhouse, Heaven Hill has made significant investments in the brand. They have continued to produce the whiskey using traditional methods, ensuring that the flavor and character of the original recipe are maintained. They have also expanded the range of Rittenhouse products, offering different expressions and finishes to cater to the evolving tastes of whiskey enthusiasts.
As a sommelier, I have had the pleasure of experiencing Rittenhouse Straight Rye Whisky firsthand. Its smoothness, complexity, and rich flavors make it a standout choice for whiskey connoisseurs. It's a whiskey that pays homage to the traditional methods of production while also embracing innovation and experimentation.
Heaven Hill Distillery is the proud owner of the Rittenhouse Straight Rye Whisky brand. Their acquisition of the brand in 1999 was a bold move during a time when the popularity of whiskey was declining. However, Heaven Hill saw the potential in Rittenhouse and believed in its quality and heritage. They have since invested in the brand and continued to produce exceptional rye whiskey that honors the legacy of Rittenhouse.