First whiskey was Rye. This is the robust, spicy relative of bourbon, distilled from at least 51% rye, and it predates bourbon by a great margin. The fruit complements the rye’s spice, which is further accentuated by a hint of vanilla and leather richness. These unique tastes develop while it rests in charred young wood, adding to its attractiveness.

Rye whiskey was formerly the most popular variety, but the prohibition laws of the 1950s and 1960s almost completely destroyed it. Rye whiskey, created by Scots-Irish immigrants in western Pennsylvania, New York, and Maryland, embodies the essence of classic American culture and served as the model for modern American whiskeys.

Rye has taken center stage once more today. While “straight rye” needs to spend at least two years in the barrel, rye does not have a minimum age requirement. Choose rye-t by perusing our daring assortment of whiskeys beneath.