Rye
FlagshipKentucky, Indiana (MGP), New York, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Canada
Famous For
Manhattan
Whiskey, sweet vermouth, bitters. The cocktail that built the cocktail bar.
Sazerac
New Orleans named it the official cocktail of the city in 2008 but it had been running the town since the 1850s.
Vieux Carré
Rye and cognac split-base stirred with vermouth and Benedictine. The Quarter's finest export.
Tasting Notes
Black pepper, baking spice, clove, caraway, dill, dried herbs, cinnamon, mint, dark fruit, rye bread, anise, leather. Higher rye content (90%+) pushes herbal and peppery notes forward. 51% rye mashbills keep some of bourbon's sweetness and caramel. Barrel proof intensifies the spice — it should warm, not burn.
Brand Guide
Old Overholt, Jim Beam Rye ($18-22)
Rittenhouse Bonded, Bulleit Rye, Wild Turkey Rye ($25-35)
Pikesville, Knob Creek Rye, High West Double Rye ($40-55)
WhistlePig 10yr, Sazerac 18, Michter's Barrel Strength Rye ($60-120+). Rittenhouse is the bartender's rye — bonded, affordable, and built for cocktails