Elijah Craig Toasted Rye is a Kentucky straight rye whiskey from Heaven Hill, charred to start and toasted to finish in a second, custom-toasted new oak barrel, bottled at 94 proof (47% ABV).
In 1789, Elijah Craig was credited with first charring oak barrels to make bourbon. Toasted Rye honors that innovative spirit: once fully matured, Elijah Craig Straight Rye is dumped and re-entered at barrel proof into a second custom-toasted new oak barrel, designed with Independent Stave Company, to develop even more sweet oak. Because the finishing barrel is new and charred, it keeps its status as Kentucky straight rye whiskey. The mash bill is at least 51% rye.
Toasted oak and crème brûlée lead the nose with almonds and hazelnuts. The palate is soft and creamy with milk chocolate and subtle baking spices, and the long, smooth finish leaves gentle oak and rye spice.
The classic Elijah Craig label makes it a handsome gift.
American rye whiskey is made from a mash of at least 51% rye and aged in new charred oak, giving it a spicier, drier character than bourbon, with notes of pepper, herbs and baking spice.
Rye whiskey must be made from at least 51% rye.
Toasting a barrel caramelizes wood sugars without deep charring.
Serve it neat in a Glencairn glass.
A few drops of water open up the crème brûlée notes.
It is a great gift for rye fans.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Toasted oak, crème brûlée, almond, hazelnut.
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Palate: Creamy, milk chocolate, baking spice.
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Finish: Long, smooth, gentle oak and rye spice.
Specifications
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Distillery: Heaven Hill, Bardstown, Kentucky
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Style: Kentucky straight rye, toasted barrel finish
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Casks: Charred new oak, then custom-toasted new oak
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Proof / ABV: 94 proof (47% ABV)
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Region: Kentucky, USA
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
To fully enjoy its sweet oak complexity and long, smooth finish, sip it neat. It also makes a rich Manhattan. It pairs with crème brûlée, almond biscotti or milk chocolate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is it finished?
In a second, custom-toasted new oak barrel.
Is it still a straight rye?
Yes, because the finishing barrel is new and charred.
How should I drink it?
Neat, to enjoy its sweet oak and long finish.
Explore more in our Rye collection.
