The 30 Best Rye Whiskeys for 2023

Vinepair | Tim McKirdy | november 1, 2023

[Excerpt]

If you’ve only encountered rye whiskey in passing, you may still be familiar with two common descriptions of the spirit: that it’s bourbon’s spicier sibling, and that it’s crucial in the creation of a handful of classic cocktails. While these statements ring true, they also benefit from further elaboration.

The inclusion of rye (the grain) in any mash bill indeed lends a spicy kick, but that characteristic can take on many forms, from savory spice, like caraway and black pepper, to sweet baking spices, such as cinnamon and cloves. Another distinguishing factor that defines many rye whiskeys is fresh, herbal notes — think dill and mint. Though not always present, these notes complement the grain’s signature spice, but it would be a stretch to define them as spicy by nature.

On the cocktail front, it’s true that rye is vital for any properly made Manhattan or Sazerac, and competently takes the place of bourbon in an Old Fashioned or Boulevardier. But were it not for the revival of those cocktails, there’s a high chance that rye would have continued down its path of dwindling popularity to reach near extinction by this point. In short: Rye is essential in these drinks but the drinks themselves are just as important in the whiskey’s modern history.

So rye’s is a complicated tale, and the waters are only muddied further by another point that should be raised: Given the recency of this style’s resurgence in popularity, many distilleries have been forced to source from or contract distill their rye at external facilities — the most notable being Indiana’s MGP. Now this is also true in the bourbon industry, but given that even some of the major brands continue to do so with their rye expressions, it’s worth reiterating. So, too, is the simple fact that there’s nothing inherently wrong with this practice, especially as those buying and bottling this juice are increasingly transparent about doing so.

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Let’s explore some of the finest expressions on the market. Here are the 30 best rye whiskeys at every price point for 2023.

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Old Elk Straight Rye Whiskey

Old Elk’s master distiller Greg Matze spent 14 of his 40 years in the business as master distiller at MGP, so his experience producing rye is practically unrivaled. That this 5-year release would stand as the dictionary definition of the classic rye profile should therefore come as no surprise. Underripe cherries, vanilla, and oak notes open the nose. The proof and weight of the palate keep things moving nicely, and there’s enjoyable spice on the finish. We’d score this higher but the price here also feels ever so slightly steep. Nonetheless, this bottle would make for a worthy addition to any collection.

Rating: 92

Read the full list at vinepair.com