Elijah Craig Straight Rye is an extra-aged Kentucky straight rye whiskey from Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, bottled at 94 proof (47% ABV).
Elijah Craig is credited as the first distiller to age his whiskey in charred oak barrels, earning his place in history as the Father of Bourbon. The charred barrel transformed clear spirit into an intense amber whiskey rich with the flavors of the wood. Elijah Craig Rye honors that innovative spirit as the first extra-aged Kentucky straight rye in the award-winning lineup.
Its distillation is similar to Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon, but the mash bill leads with rye instead of corn: 51% rye, 35% corn and 14% malted barley, balancing the spiciness of rye with the sweetness of corn. It is aged in new charred American oak, and a steadfast attention to detail through aging and selection gives it the perfect balance of flavor and smoothness.
The nose offers baking spice, dark fruit, vanilla and toasted oak with hints of citrus. The palate brings bold rye spice, caramel, black pepper, honey and subtle cocoa, and the finish is warm and integrated, with spice and oak in balance.
Elijah Craig Rye is a superb cocktail rye with enough depth to sip. Stir a Manhattan with sweet vermouth and bitters, a Sazerac with a rinse of absinthe, or a Vieux Carré, and it makes a lively Old Fashioned with orange peel. Neat or with a splash of water, its caramel and spice open up beautifully. Pair it with smoked brisket, charcuterie, aged gouda, dark chocolate or pecan pie. The classic Elijah Craig bottle, with its green 1789 label, makes it a great gift for bourbon drinkers ready to explore rye and for anyone who loves classic whiskey cocktails.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Baking spice, dark fruit, vanilla, toasted oak.
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Palate: Rye spice, caramel, black pepper, honey, cocoa.
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Finish: Warm, integrated spice and oak.
Specifications
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Producer: Heaven Hill Distillery, Bardstown, Kentucky
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Mash bill: 51% rye, 35% corn, 14% malted barley
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Barrels: New charred American oak
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Style: Kentucky straight rye whiskey
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Proof / ABV: 94 proof (47% ABV)
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Stir a Manhattan, or sip it with a splash of water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mash bill?
51% rye, 35% corn and 14% malted barley.
Who makes it?
Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky.
How strong is it?
94 proof (47% ABV).
Explore more in our Rye collection.
