A Brief History Of Rye Whiskey

This is a somewhat wry look at the history of rye whiskey. My pun is fully intended.

In terms of the rye whiskeys that I’ve actually tried, they include Bulleit, Wild Turkey (not a fan), Woodford Reserve, Old Henry Clay, Sazerac, and Michters. I really am not sure if they are Maryland ryes or Pennsylvania/Monogahela ryes.

The Resurgence Of Rye Whiskey

FoxNews picked up a story out of Louisville, KY about the resurgence of rye whiskey. With bourbon booming, I guess it was only natural that rye eventually would pick up again. Given that rye was probably America’s first whiskey and that George Washington was the country’s largest distiller of rye after he left the presidency, I’m glad to see it.

Woodford Reserve rye is the one shown here in the story. I will admit to not having tried it. I have a bottle of Michter’s and a bottle of Wild Turkey rye in my liquor cabinet. And for some reason, I think I have a bottle of Bulleit hanging around as well which might be a sign that I have too many bottles of bourbon and rye.

I like both bourbon and rye Manhattans. However, there is nothing like rye if you want to make a Sazerac. According to the story, mixologists (aka bartenders) actually prefer rye in their creations as it is spicier and less sweet.

If you have a favorite rye, let me know in the comments and I may have to try it.

WDRB 41 Louisville News