Rye

Rye whiskey is a type of whiskey made primarily from rye grain. It has a distinct, often spicy flavor profile, setting it apart from other types of whiskey like bourbon. Rye whiskey comes in 3 main varieties:

1. American Rye Whiskey: In the United States, rye whiskey must be made from at least 51% rye grain, distilled to no more than 160 proof (80% alcohol by volume), and aged in new charred oak barrels. It often has a bold, spicy taste with notes of fruit, citrus, and sometimes caramel or vanilla.
2. Canadian Rye Whiskey: In Canada, rye whiskey can be made with varying amounts of rye grain, and sometimes even with none at all. The term “rye” in Canadian whiskey is more historical and refers to the style of the whiskey rather than its ingredients. Canadian rye whiskey is generally smoother and lighter than its American counterpart.
3. European rye whisky is gaining popularity as distilleries across Europe explore and innovate with rye as a key grain. While it shares some similarities with American and Canadian rye whiskies, European rye whisky often reflects the unique characteristics of the region where it’s produced. European rye whiskies can have a wide range of flavors, from the classic spicy notes of rye to more unique profiles influenced by local grains, climate, and aging techniques. You might find flavors like honey, dried fruit, nuts, and spices.

Rye whiskey is often enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails like the Manhattan and the Old Fashioned. Cheers to your next sip!