Rye whisky is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, rekindling its status in the spirits world. Historically tied to America and Canada, rye whisky flourished until the onset of Prohibition in the United States (1920-1933), which halted its production and sale. Even after Prohibition was lifted, rye whiskies were often viewed as a lesser alternative to bourbon. However, the tide is turning, as rye whisky enjoys a renaissance, with its popularity showing no signs of slowing down.
Innovative craft distillers in both America and Europe have played a pivotal role in revitalizing this spirit. Recognizing the shift in consumer interest, many established bourbon producers have also released their own rye whiskies, thereby further expanding the market.
Curious about the current offerings? Below, we present a selection of ten outstanding rye whiskies from both emerging craft distillers and renowned brands.
Arbikie
Founded in 2015 near Dundee, Scotland, Arbikie is a single-estate distillery, meaning it produces spirits using water and cereals sourced from its adjoining farm. Its rye whisky, launched with a limited-edition bottling in 2018, marked the return of rye production to Scotland after a century. The core product, 1794 Highland Rye Scotch, ages in virgin American oak casks to enhance its sweetness and spice, evoking flavors of vanilla fudge, cookie dough, baking spices, earthy ginger, and liquorice.
Balcones
Established in 2008, Balcones was at the forefront of the American craft distilling movement. The brand is known for its innovative approach and is actively advocating for new legislation aimed at defining American whisky categories. Their award-winning Balcones Texas Rye 100 Proof is composed entirely of Texas-grown rye, with some grains roasted to enhance flavor.
The result is captivating, featuring chocolate, cherry, and toffee notes alongside black tea, coffee, and peppery cereals, wrapped up with a refreshing hint of menthol.
Bulleit
Bulleit is a pioneering name that helped popularize rye whisky. Released in 2011, Bulleit Rye boasts a remarkable 95% rye content in its mash bill, far exceeding the American legal requirement of 51%. Originally famed for its Kentucky bourbon, Bulleit continues to use the recipe created by founder Augustus Bulleit in 1830.
Produced in small batches, Bulleit Rye has consistently garnered accolades worldwide. Tasting notes include dark cherry, cinnamon, and vanilla, along with orange zest, cereal bars, all-spice, and a trace of tobacco leaf, making it an exceptional choice.
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Crown Royal
A cornerstone of the Canadian rye whisky scene, Crown Royal was established over 80 years ago in 1939 to commemorate a visit by King George VI to Canada. Rye grain has always been integral to its blends, but it gained international acclaim following the introduction of Crown Royal Northern Harvest Rye in 2015. With a remarkable 90% rye content, this whisky delivers depth and richness, showcasing vanilla and butterscotch with spicy, earthy undertones.
Jack Daniel’s
Renowned globally as the best-selling American whiskey, Jack Daniel’s made its entry into rye whisky in 2017, marking the first new mash bill in nearly 150 years. Founded by Jasper Newton Daniel (nicknamed ‘Jack’) in the 1870s in Lynchburg, Tennessee, the Single Barrel Rye showcases notes of vanilla, dried apricots, and toasted hazelnut, complemented by peppery rye spice, sweet corn bread, orange oil, and clove. This expression demonstrates the meticulous selection of only the finest single barrels by the Master Distiller.
Kyrö
Hailing from Finland, Kyrö is a craft distillery that exclusively produces whisky from locally sourced rye. Founded in 2012 by five friends inspired by American rye whisky, the distillery is situated in Isokyrö and emphasizes sustainable practices. Its flagship product, Malt Rye, released in 2020, received top honors at the IWSC (International Wine & Spirit Challenge). Expect delightful notes of earthy spice, orange marmalade, dark chocolate, and coffee, alongside other variations like Wood Smoked Malt Rye and various cask finishes.
Powers
Powers has recently entered the rye market, introducing Powers Irish Rye as the first whisky made entirely from Irish-grown rye. Developed by the Midleton distillery in Co. Cork, the recipe was inspired by an old technique rediscovered by an archivist. This recipe utilizes rye cultivated in Co. Wexford, near the traditional home of the Power family.
Founded in 1791 by James Power, the Powers brand remains iconic in Ireland, known for its renowned range of single pot still whiskeys. The new Powers Irish Rye features tasting notes of maraschino cherry, burnt orange, and candied ginger, complemented by hints of clove and peppermint.
Stauning
Founded in 2005, Stauning is Denmark’s inaugural whisky distillery, created by nine friends who prioritize local sourcing and sustainability. Their production uses cereals from within a 25km radius of the distillery. Stauning KAOS is a unique blend of rye, single malt, and smoky single malt, with barley contributing a pleasant softness.
The smoky element derives from local Jutland peat and heather. Expect a delightful medley of golden syrup, chocolate, and vanilla paired with warm spices, cereal bars, and a lingering sweet smoke.
TOAD
The Oxford Artisan Distillery (TOAD) has been experimenting with ancient grain varieties since its inception in 2017. Rye has been central to this mission, and the distillery has focused on reviving heritage strains lost to history. TOAD’s small batch whiskies, with playful names like Easy Ryder and Red Red Rye, are crafted from a mash bill of 90% maslin (an ancient mix of 80% rye and 20% wheat) and 10% malted barley. Their latest offering, The Tawny Pipe, matured in ex-Port casks, is rich and vibrant.
Whistlepig
Whistlepig produces its rye whiskies in Canada, where they are initially matured, before moving to Vermont for final aging at their farm. This brand distinguishes itself by consistently showcasing age statements on its bottles, contributing to the revival of rye whisky in the market.
All Whistlepig whiskies are crafted from 100% rye, and the collection encompasses whiskies aged between 6 to 18 years. Our top recommendation is the exquisite Whistlepig 15-Year-Old. Though on the pricier side, it features a delightful blend of butterscotch, toffee, peppery rye spice, milk chocolate, and toasted hazelnut.
