Rye Whisky, what makes it so special?

Rye whisky is a type of whisky that is made from a mash of at least 51% rye grain. It is a popular choice among whisky lovers and is known for its spicy and bold flavour profile.


Rye whisky has a long and storied history, with roots dating back to the early days of American whiskey production. It was once the dominant type of whiskey in the United States, particularly in the Northeast and Midwest. Today, it is enjoyed by people all over the world and is an important part of American culture and heritage.

The History of Rye Whisky

Rye whisky has a rich history in the United States, with roots dating back to the early 18th century. It was originally produced by farmers in the Northeast and Midwest who used it as a form of currency and trade.

During the 19th century, rye whisky became increasingly popular and was produced in large quantities by distilleries across the country. It was particularly popular in Pennsylvania, which was once home to a thriving whisky industry.

In the 20th century, rye whisky saw a decline in popularity as other types of whiskey, such as bourbon, became more popular. However, it has seen a resurgence in recent years, with many people rediscovering its unique and bold flavours.

image from dude4food

How is Rye Whisky Made?

Rye whisky is made using a process similar to that of other types of whiskey. The process begins with the production of the mash, which is a mixture of grains and water. To make rye whisky, the mash must contain at least 51% rye grain. Other grains, such as corn and barley, may also be used.

After the mash is created, it is placed in a fermentation tank where it is left to ferment for several days. This process converts the sugars in the grains into alcohol.

The next step in the process is distillation, which involves heating the fermented liquid and collecting the vapours that are produced. The resulting liquid is then aged in oak barrels for several years to develop its flavour and color.

After aging, the rye whisky is blended with other rye whiskies to create a consistent flavour profile. 

Popular Rye Whiskies

Some of the most popular rye whiskies include Bulleit Rye, Sazerac Rye, and Rittenhouse Rye. 

In conclusion, rye whisky is a type of whiskey that is made from a mash of at least 51% rye grain. It has a bold and spicy flavour profile and a long and storied history in the United States. Rye whisky is made using a process that involves several steps, that are not unlike the steps in Bourbon. Rye is an important part of American culture and heritage although less known than it's more famous 'brother' Bourbon. 

So next time you find a bottle of Rye Whisky on the shelf give it a go and register your experience in the Savour-Tasting app.  

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