Rye whiskey

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Rye whiskey is a type of whiskey that is distilled from at least 51% rye grain. It is known for its distinctive, spicy flavor and is a key ingredient in many classic cocktails.

History

Rye whiskey has a long history in North America, particularly in the United States and Canada. In the United States, rye whiskey was historically produced in the Northeastern and Midwestern states, with Pennsylvania and Maryland being notable centers of production. Canadian rye whisky, often referred to simply as "rye," has been produced since the early 19th century and is a staple of the Canadian whisky industry.

Production

The production of rye whiskey involves several key steps:

• Mashing: The rye grain is ground and mixed with water to create a mash.
• Fermentation: The mash is fermented with yeast to convert the sugars into alcohol.
• Distillation: The fermented mash is distilled to increase the alcohol content.
• Aging: The distilled spirit is aged in charred oak barrels for a minimum period, which varies by country. In the United States, rye whiskey must be aged for at least two years to be labeled as "straight rye whiskey."

Types

There are several types of rye whiskey, including:

• American rye whiskey: Must be made from at least 51% rye and aged in new charred oak barrels.
• Canadian rye whisky: Often contains a higher percentage of corn and other grains, but is still commonly referred to as rye.

Cocktails

Rye whiskey is a popular ingredient in many classic cocktails, such as:

• Manhattan
• Old Fashioned
• Sazerac

Regulations

In the United States, rye whiskey is regulated by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). The TTB specifies that rye whiskey must be made from a mash bill of at least 51% rye, distilled to no more than 160 proof, and aged in new charred oak barrels.

See also

• Whiskey
• Bourbon whiskey
• Scotch whisky
• Canadian whisky