Sonoma Distilling Co. California Rye is a grain-to-glass straight rye whiskey from Sonoma County, made from 100% rye, including malted rye, and bottled at 93 proof (46.5% ABV).
Adam Spiegel founded Sonoma Distilling Co. in 2010, and the distillery has since been called a trailblazer among California whiskeys. The California Rye showcases its commitment to traditional methods: the mash is 80% unmalted rye with malted rye making up the rest, and the spirit is double distilled in direct-fired copper pot stills, which gives it a unique toasted character, before resting in new charred American oak.
Dried apricot and warm cinnamon spice rise from the glass first. The palate is spicy and herbaceous, with vanilla, allspice, white pepper, more dried apricot and a little walnut, and the finish brings a satisfying nuttiness with a gentle, chocolatey cocoa note.
A bold West Coast rye that stands apart from the Kentucky style.
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.
The profile is distinctly West Coast: unapologetically spicy, naturally herbaceous and grounded by a subtle, chocolate-leaning finish that sets it apart from traditional Kentucky ryes, while the 93-proof bottling strikes a confident middle ground that is expressive and highly versatile.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Dried apricot, warm cinnamon.
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Palate: Vanilla, allspice, white pepper, walnut.
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Finish: Nutty, with a gentle cocoa note.
Specifications
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Distillery: Sonoma Distilling Co., Sonoma County, California
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Style: Straight rye whiskey
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Mash bill: 100% rye (80% rye, 20% malted rye)
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Distillation: Double distilled in direct-fired copper pot stills
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Barrels: New charred American oak
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Proof / ABV: 93 proof (46.5% ABV)
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Sip it neat or with a drop of water, or let its spice drive a Manhattan, a Sazerac or an Old Fashioned.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mash bill?
100% rye, including malted rye.
What makes it different?
Direct-fired copper pot distillation gives it a toasted character.
What proof is it?
93 proof (46.5% ABV).
Explore more in our Rye collection.
