American
Rye

Way back in the day, rye whiskey was the spirit of choice for American men. Though it all but disappeared after Prohibition. Bourbon became the brown liquor most likely to be found clinking in your rocks glass. What's the difference? A rye whiskey must contain a mashbill that is at least 51 percent rye (bourbon's mash is corn-based) and aged in charred new oak barrels. It's typically spicier, bolder and more potent than bourbon, which may be why bartenders are pouring more and more of it these days. Here are four small batch bottles worth trying for your own rye renaissance.

Four to Try

Sazerac Rye

90 Proof

Ideal for beginners, this easy-drinking rye has a cherry bourbon-like sweetness mixed with the smoky spice of charred wood.

$33 at Amazon

Templeton Small Batch Rye

80 Proof

Still made in small batches in Iowa, this Prohibition-era recipe is surprisingly smooth. Woody, with a touch of brown sugar.

$40 at BevMo

Hudson Manhattan Rye

92 Proof

Using local grain, this has a recognizable rye edge. But the initial heat is tempered with a cocoa and floral finish.