Rye whiskey

What is rye whiskey?

Rye whiskey is a whiskey made from 51% rye, then distilled to around 80% and aged in flamed oak casks. Rye whiskey is generally produced in Kentucky, as in the Buffalo Trace distillery, but it can also be Canadian, as in the Whistel Pig distillery, or Finnish, as in the Kyrö distillery.

History

This whiskey was first produced in North America in the 18th century, when the first European settlers began distilling rye. American pioneers and settlers quickly came to appreciate this strong, spicy whiskey, and it soon became popular. Particularly during Prohibition, rye whiskey was in great demand, and despite the ban on alcohol, clandestine distillers continued to make it.

With the end of Prohibition, rye whiskey lost popularity, giving way to other spirits such as bourbon and scotch. Today, this spirit is appreciated for its bold, spicy flavors. It is produced throughout North America.

A whiskey with a distinctive taste

Although rye whiskey is a typically American spirit, it's different from all the others. It has a unique taste, with spicy and fruity aromas.

It can be drunk neat on the rocks, or as a cocktail. In fact, it's often used as the base spirit in Manhattan (Rye Whiskey, Red Vermouth and a Bitter) and Sour Whiskey (Rye Whiskey, lemon, cane sugar).