George Washington’s Rye Whiskey® made the way George Washington made it. George Washington’s Rye Whiskey® is the official spirit of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Photo by George Washington’s Mount Vernon.
Rye whiskey is a distinctive and historic spirit that has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years. Known for its bold, spicy flavor, rye whiskey has a rich history and a unique production process that sets it apart from other types of whiskey.
Rye whiskey has deep roots in American history. It was the predominant whiskey in the northeastern United States, particularly in Pennsylvania, New York, and Maryland, during the late 1700s and early 1800s. Pittsburgh was a major center for rye whiskey production, with farmers in Allegheny County producing significant quantities.
Although he seldom consumed whiskey, George Washington operated one of the largest distilleries in America at his Mount Vernon estate. His whiskey was made from a mash bill consisting of 60% rye, 35% corn, and 5% malted barley. The whiskey was distilled at least twice before being sent to market and was sold in its unaged, clear form.
Washington’s distillery was quite successful, producing nearly 11,000 gallons of whiskey in 1799, the year he passed away. Today, George Washington’s Rye Whiskey is still produced at a reconstructed distillery at Mount Vernon using his original recipe and traditional 18th-century methods. In addition to the original, the distillery now also offers barrel-aged straight rye whiskeys, as well George Washington’s Rye Whiskey® is the official spirit of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Distilled spirits produced at Mount Vernon are available for purchase at the distillery, at the Shops at Mount Vernon, and online.
Rye whiskey’s popularity waned after Prohibition, with only a few brands surviving. In recent years, there has been a revival of interest in rye whiskey, with many new brands entering the market.
There are two main types of rye whiskey: American rye whiskey and Canadian rye whisky. American rye whiskey must adhere to the strict regulations mentioned above, while Canadian rye whisky, often referred to simply as “rye,” may not necessarily contain any rye grain at all. Despite this, Canadian rye whisky has a long tradition and is known for its smooth and versatile flavor. Today, many Canadian rye whiskies do include rye in their mash bills, but the regulations are not as strict as those for American rye whiskey. Canadian rye whisky is known for its smooth and versatile flavor, making it a popular choice for both sipping and mixing in cocktail.
The spelling difference between “whiskey” and “whisky” primarily depends on the country of origin. “Whiskey” (with an “e”) is used for spirits distilled in the United States and Ireland, while “whisky” (without the “e”) refers to those from Scotland, Canada, and Japan. This variation in spelling reflects regional traditions and historical practices.
Production Process
American rye whiskey must be made from a mash bill containing at least 51% rye grain³. The remaining ingredients are typically corn and malted barley⁵. High-rye rye whiskey refers to those with a higher percentage of rye in the mash bill than the minimum 51%, resulting in a spicier and more complex flavor profile.
The mash is fermented, distilled to no more than 160 proof (80% ABV), and aged in charred, new oak barrels. The whiskey must be put into the barrels at no more than 125 proof (62.5% ABV). Rye whiskey aged for at least two years and not blended with other spirits can be designated as “straight rye whiskey”. The unaged rye whiskey made at George Washington’s Mount Vernon is classified as white whiskey or white rye whiskey.
Rye whiskey is known for its spicy and bold flavor, which distinguishes it from the sweeter taste of whiskey. The high rye content gives the whiskey a characteristic spiciness, often described as peppery or with notes of baking spices. This makes rye whiskey a popular choice for cocktails like the Manhattan and the Sazerac.
Enjoying Rye Whiskey
Rye whiskey can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails. A true whiskey aficionado will order their drink neat, which means it is at room temperature and without ice.
Whiskey tasting is an art that engages all your senses to appreciate its complex flavors and aromas. Start by pouring your whiskey into a Glencairn-style glass to concentrate the aromas. Observe the color; darker hues often indicate longer aging and richer flavors. Gently swirl the glass and nose the whiskey by placing your nose slightly inside the glass with your lips parted and inhaling deeply. This helps you pick up subtle notes without being overwhelmed by alcohol vapors.
When tasting, take a small sip and let the whiskey coat your tongue. Hold it in your mouth for a few seconds to allow the flavors to develop. You might notice hints of vanilla, caramel, oak, or spice, depending on the whiskey’s mash bill and aging process. For a more in-depth experience, try the “Kentucky Chew” method: take a larger sip and “chew” the whiskey in your mouth to release more flavors. Pay attention to the finish, the lingering taste after you swallow. A good whiskey will have a smooth, lasting finish that leaves you wanting more. Enjoying whiskey is about savoring each sip and discovering the unique characteristics of each bottle.
Adding a drop of water to whiskey is common among enthusiasts and can enhance the tasting experience. Water can open up the flavors and aromas by diluting the alcohol content slightly, allowing certain flavor compounds to become more apparent. Use purified or distilled water to avoid impurities that might alter the taste. Start with a few drops and taste the whiskey to see how it changes. This method is useful for high-proof whiskeys, where the alcohol content can be strong. Ultimately, whether to add water or not is a matter of personal preference, and experimenting with different amounts can help you find the perfect balance for your palate.
Closing Thoughts
Whether you prefer the bold spiciness of American rye, the smooth versatility of Canadian rye, or the complexity of high-rye whiskeys, there’s a rye whiskey out there to suit every palate. Exploring these different types can be a rewarding journey for any whiskey enthusiast.
Source
George Washington’s Mount Vernon
mountvernon.org