Rye whiskey, known for its spicy and robust flavor profile, has gained popularity among whiskey lovers, especially in cocktails.
In the U.S., rye whiskey must contain at least 51% rye in the mash, which gives it a distinctive spicy kick.
While bourbon tends to dominate the American whiskey scene, rye is now appreciated for its ability to enhance classic cocktails like the Manhattan or Old Fashioned.
Here’s a breakdown of some top rye whiskey recommendations based on expert tastings:
Best Rye Whiskeys
1 Best Overall:
291 Colorado Whiskey Small Batch Rye Whiskey
- Proof: 101.7
- Mash Bill: 61% malted rye, 39% corn
- Aging: Less than 2 years
- Price: ~$75
This small-batch rye offers a smooth butterscotch aroma with a sweet and complex flavor profile. It’s ideal for sipping or crafting strong cocktails.
2 Best Budget Option
Wild Turkey 101 Rye Whiskey
- Proof: 101
- Mash Bill: Undisclosed
- Aging: 4+ years
- Price: ~$30
A favorite for its balance of spice and fruity notes, Wild Turkey 101 is versatile and works well in cocktails or as a sipper.
3. Best Under $50
High West Double Rye Whiskey
- Proof: 92
- Mash Bill: 95% rye, 5% barley malt; 80% rye, 20% malted rye
- Aging: 2+ years
- Price: ~$40
This blended rye delivers bold flavors of licorice, cinnamon, and honey, with a balanced spiciness, perfect for drinking neat or mixed.
4. Best Top Shelf
WhistlePig 12-Year-Old World Rye Whiskey
- Proof: 86
- Mash Bill: 90-100% rye
- Aging: 12 years
- Price: ~$160
Finished in wine casks, this rye offers vanilla, caramel, and fruit notes, making it an exceptional sipping whiskey for those willing to splurge.
5. Best for Cocktails
Rittenhouse Rye Whiskey
- Proof: 100
- Mash Bill: 51% rye, 35% corn, 14% malted barley
- Aging: 4 years
- Price: ~$30
This versatile rye brings a pleasant spice and woodiness that complements classic cocktails like Manhattans and Sazeracs.
6. Best Canadian Rye
Lot 40 Canadian Rye Whisky
- Proof: 86
- Mash Bill: 100% rye
- Price: ~$40
Made from 100% rye, Lot 40 is known for its maple, apple, and vanilla flavors, with a long, spicy finish that makes it ideal for sipping.
7. Best Kentucky Rye
Sazerac Rye Whiskey
- Proof: 90
- Mash Bill: Undisclosed
- Aging: 6 years
- Price: ~$35
Distilled by Buffalo Trace, Sazerac Rye has a well-balanced flavor of spices, oak, and floral notes, making it perfect for beginners or seasoned rye drinkers.
8. Best High-Proof
Traverse City Whiskey Co. Barrel Proof Straight Rye Whiskey
- Proof: 118.8
- Mash Bill: 95% rye, 5% barley
- Aging: 6 years
- Price: ~$80
A high-proof rye with a rich sweetness and strong spice, ideal for those who enjoy a stiff drink with balanced flavors.
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9 Best for Drinking Neat
Hotel Tango Straight Rye Whiskey
- Proof: 100
- Mash Bill: 95% rye, 5% barley
- Aging: 2 years
- Price: ~$45
Smooth and sweet, this rye is great for sipping neat, with flavors of cinnamon, vanilla, and maple syrup.
10 Best for Beginners
Elijah Craig Rye Whiskey
- Proof: 94
- Mash Bill: 51% rye, 35% corn, 14% barley
- Price: ~$35
With its approachable flavor and smooth finish, Elijah Craig Rye is perfect for those new to rye whiskey.
11. Best bottled-in-bond rye whiskey
FEW Bottled in Bond Straight Rye Whiskey
- Proof:100
- Mash bill:60% rye, 20% corn, 10% malted barley
- Age:4 years
On the nose, FEW BIB rye whiskey offers an inviting mix of sweetness, with notes of banana, floral hints, vanilla, honey, and anise.