Rye Whiskey

Each bottle you find here represents the best of the best in whiskey-making artistry and some newer faces eager to make their mark.

What Is Rye Whiskey?

Rye whiskey is a distilled spirit made from a mash that contains a large portion of rye grain (at least 51%). As you'll see when you read further, rye whiskey can be categorized by two main types: American and Canadian. Rye whiskey tends to be spicy, crisp, and lively. New drinkers find rye an instant upgrade from neutral spirits, and seasoned fans consistently enjoy its range.

Types of Rye Whiskey

American Rye

American rye whiskey is made from a mash bill with at least 51% rye grain. It is usually distilled and aged in new charred oak, which gives a spicy, peppery core and a dry finish. This style is the backbone of classic cocktails like the Manhattan and Sazerac.

Canadian Rye

Canadian rye whisky is often lighter and more blended in style. The label "rye" in Canada has historical roots and does not require a high rye content; many Canadian whiskies blend multiple grains for a smoother, milder result suited to highballs and long drinks.

Rye Whiskey Variations

We did mention two main categories, but there are some variations worth noting.

Finished Rye:

Finished rye spends time in a second type of cask after primary aging, such as sherry or port barrels. This helps add a layer of fruit, tannin, or sweetness without changing the original rye character.

Bottled In Bond:

Bottled‑in‑bond is a U.S. designation that means that the whiskey is from one distillery, one season, aged at least four years, and bottled at 100 proof. Many might think that bottles are immediately expensive, but you can find decent bottles that are affordable.

Rock and Rye:

Rock and rye is a historic, lightly sweetened spirit where rye whiskey is combined with rock candy or sugar and sometimes citrus or spice. It's used as a simple remedy or a vintage-style mixer rather than a primary whiskey category.

Notable Rye Whiskey Brands

Bulleit

Known for bright spice and solid value. A cocktail workhorse.

Michter's

Small batches with a rich, balanced profile; good for sipping and cocktails.

Angel's Envy

Finished in port or wine casks for softer fruit and added complexity.

WhistlePig

Focused on high‑rye mash bills and long aging - bold and age‑forward.

Rittenhouse

Bottled in bond, high proof, classic Manhattan and Old Fashioned partner.

Old Forester

Reliable, widely available, and designed for mixability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between rye and rye whiskey?

That's easy! Rye whiskey is just a specific type of whiskey.

Whiskey is made with different kinds of grains like corn, barley, wheat, and rye. Rye is just specifically used to make, well, rye whiskey.

I heard that rye whiskey is the healthiest type of alcohol. Is that true?

Whoa there, partner! Alcohol, in general, is not considered to be a health food. If you're approaching rye whiskey under that assumption, then you're going to have a rough time. Sure, rye whiskey can contain antioxidants and is generally low in sugar. But one should never think of it as a supplement or any health boost. It's alcohol. It's meant for responsible consumption and enjoyment.

Can I use rye whiskey to make myself some cocktails?

Sure! Rye whiskey is the base for many a classic drink. Manhattan, Sazerac, and Old Fashioned… Use a 2:1 spirit-to-liqueur ratio for stirred cocktails and adjust sugar or bitters to taste. Rye whiskey brings spice, structure, and a dry finish.