The Father of Bourbon Introduces a Game-Changing Rye Whiskey
Elijah Craig, the pioneering brand credited with inventing bourbon, has just launched a revolutionary new whiskey that is sure to send shockwaves through the spirits world. Elijah Craig Toasted Rye, the latest expression from the Kentucky-based distillery, is a toasted rye whiskey that combines the classic spice notes of traditional rye with the rich, velvety smoothness of milk chocolate.
Image Credit: Heaven Hill
The process begins with fully matured Elijah Craig Straight Rye Whiskey, which is then dumped and re-entered at barrel proof into a second, custom toasted new oak barrel. This innovative technique adds complex layers of soft and creamy milk chocolate to the characteristic spice notes of the rye, creating a truly unique flavor profile.
“From the moment our tasting panel tried Elijah Craig Toasted Rye through our ongoing innovation process, we knew this expression was going to be special,” said Elijah Craig Group Product Director Max Stefka. “The custom toasted barrel from our partners at Independent Stave Company takes an already world-class whiskey and adds in a dessert-like bouquet of flavors.”
Elijah Craig Toasted Rye leads with an aroma of toasted oak, crème brûlée, almond, and hazelnut. Notes of milk chocolate and subtle baking spices fill the palate, while a creamy mouthfeel begins to take shape. The finish is soft and warm with lingering, drawn-out spices.
Bottle Design
The highly allocated release will be available nationally by late July at a suggested retail price of $54.99. Elijah Craig Toasted Rye’s release comes four years after the launch of Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Bourbon, an offering also available at an SRP of $54.99 for fans of the brand across the country.
As a whiskey enthusiast, I have to say that I’m excited to try Elijah Craig Toasted Rye. The combination of traditional rye spice and rich, velvety chocolate sounds like a match made in heaven. And with its custom toasted barrel and unique flavor profile, I have no doubt that this whiskey will quickly become a favorite among connoisseurs and newcomers alike.
About Elijah Craig Bourbon
Elijah Craig, known as “The Father of Bourbon,” is credited with being the first distiller to age his wares in charred oak barrels to make bourbon. The clear, unaged corn whiskey became transformed into a bold amber liquid with a distinctively smooth flavor that makes bourbon what it is today. Elijah Craig’s community impact continues through Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week, providing total donations of more than $400,000 to date to organizations supporting the hospitality industry.