Rye whisky

Rye whisky

Type	Whisky
Country of origin	United States, Canada
Introduced	18th century
Alcohol by volume	40–50%
Proof (US)	80–100
Color	Amber
Ingredients	Rye grain
Variants	American rye whiskey, Canadian whisky

Rye whisky is a type of whisky 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, such as the Manhattan and the Old Fashioned.

History

Rye whisky has a long history in North America, particularly in the United States and Canada. It was first produced by early settlers in the 18th century, who brought the tradition of whisky-making from Europe. Rye was a popular grain for whisky production because it was hardy and could be grown in the colder climates of the northeastern United States and Canada.

Production

The production of rye whisky 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 oak barrels for a minimum of two years in the United States and three years in Canada.

Types

There are two main types of rye whisky:

• American rye whiskey: Must be made from at least 51% rye grain and aged in new charred oak barrels.
• Canadian whisky: Often referred to as "rye whisky" in Canada, it can be made from a blend of grains, but rye is typically a significant component.

Flavor Profile

Rye whisky is known for its bold, spicy flavor, which can include notes of black pepper, clove, and cinnamon. It is generally drier and less sweet than bourbon, which is made primarily from corn.

Cocktails

Rye whisky is a popular choice for many classic cocktails, including:

• Manhattan
• Old Fashioned
• Sazerac
• Whiskey Sour

Related Pages

• Whisky
• Bourbon
• Canadian whisky
• Manhattan (cocktail)
• Old Fashioned
• Sazerac
• Whiskey Sour