A Rye Whiskey Introduction

This classic American whiskey has made a fierce comeback as imbibers grown weary of sweet bourbon have come to love the tongue tickling boldness and diversity of flavor found in rye whiskey. Like bourbon, it is richly influenced by time spent in new American oak barrels, which lend sweet notes of vanilla and caramel. From there it trades in a bit of bourbons smoothness for fistfuls of character - combining in various degrees savory herbaceous notes, bold spice and rich fruit. Russell’s Reserve Rye is matured in the deepest no. 4 char barrels for six years in the “center cut” of the rickhouse, and made in small batches from barrels hand-selected by Wild Turkey legends Jimmy and Eddie Russell. Prominent rye spice is balanced with a remarkably creamy body. Pikesville Rye Whiskey is crafted at Heaven Hill's Bernheim Distillery, occupying a somewhat unique spot on rye shelves by combining a higher 110 proof bottling and age statement with an easy to drink, full-flavored rye profile - with its fruit notes only amplified by the abv. Old Forester Rye is a more recent addition, with a unique mash bill of 65% rye, 20% malted barley, and 15% corn (compare to the more common "barely legal" 51% rye and high corn content of most rye whiskeys.) The high ratio of barley allows for a fully natural fermentation process, while the dense, chewy, and sweet grain acts as a balance against rye's sharp spice.

Russell's Reserve 6 Year Rye Whiskey

Vanilla, marzipan, toffee; bold spice, oak, pepper, allspice, toasted bread, roasted nuts, more caramel, balanced finish.

Old Forester Straight Rye Whiskey

Brown sugar, magnolia blossom, candied lemon; sharp black pepper, cinnamon, dried dill, baked apple, allspice, pine, anise, dry finish.

Pikesville 6 Year Rye Whiskey

Cherry syrup, red licorice, cinnamon apple; cherry cola, rye spice, vanilla, summer fruits, oak comes forward on the lingering finish.