How to Drink Rittenhouse Rye

Last Updated on: 25th April 2024, 05:32 pm

Discover the best way of drinking Rittenhouse Rye: Ideas for tasting, pairing, and enjoying this whiskey.

Written by: J Highland

Key Takeaways

• Best with a large ice ball or as a key ingredient in robust cocktails, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
• Bottled-in-Bond, 100 proof rye, providing a strong flavor foundation for mixing.
• Adding water can soften its intensity.
• Suitable in a whiskey tumbler or rocks glass.
• Flavor profile includes vanilla, oak, spice, citrus, and baking spices.
• Pairs well with steak, aged cheese, dark chocolate, spicy barbecue, and smoked salmon.
• Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.

Best Way to Drink Rittenhouse Rye

“My favorite way to enjoy Rittenhouse Rye is by adding a large ice ball or using it as the key ingredient when craving a robust cocktail. While it may not be the smoothest 100-proof whiskey and carries a slight burning sensation, its overall flavor profile compensates for this.”, suggests whiskey expert, Neil Coleman.

Rittenhouse Rye offers a straightforward and flavorful experience, though it’s not excessively complex.

According to the Heaven Hill Distillery, where it is crafted, “As a Bottled-in-Bond spirit, this 100 proof rye creates a strong flavor foundation that doesn’t get lost when mixed. “.

It has a touch of heat, but its quality and rich taste make it a welcoming whiskey that can enhance your favorite cocktails with its high proof, providing an enticing kick.

This whiskey stands out as an obvious choice, offering an enjoyable flavor profile and an affordable price, making it the top pick for those looking for a value-packed rye whiskey!

Adding Water

Adding water serves to soften the intensity of Rittenhouse Rye, making it more approachable for sipping.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to adding water; it’s a personal exploration.

Start by introducing a bit of water, savor the flavor, and then gradually incorporate water, drop by drop, until you reach the taste that perfectly suits your palate.

On the Rocks

I prefer savoring this whiskey with a large ice ball.

Although the Rittenhouse bold proof can withstand some dilution, excessive water can overly mellow the whiskey, potentially diminishing its unique flavors.

Glassware Selection

You don’t need fancy glassware to enjoy this sip; a whiskey tumbler or rocks glass is perfectly suitable.

Moreover, these glass types work well for accommodating large ice cubes, making them an excellent option.

Tasting Notes

This whiskey has an understated nose with hints of vanilla, oak, spice, a touch of citrus, and a subtle ethanol note.

Tasting it reveals a fruity, low rye spice up front, complemented by a pleasant roasted nuts undertone, citrus highlights, and a noticeable burst of baking spices.

The finish is long, leaving a buttery feeling and consistent warmth throughout the experience.

Rittenhouse Rye in Cocktails

Here are some cocktail ideas for you to consider:

Classic Manhattan

• Ingredients:
  • 2 oz Rye Whiskey
  • 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
  • 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
  • Maraschino Cherry or Lemon Twist (for garnish)
• Preparation:
  1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
  2. Add rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
  3. Stir well until chilled, about 30 seconds.
  4. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
  5. Garnish with a maraschino cherry or a lemon twist.

Sazerac

• Ingredients:
  • 2 oz Rye Whiskey
  • 1 Sugar Cube
  • 2 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
  • Absinthe or Herbsaint (for rinsing the glass)
  • Lemon Peel (for garnish)
• Preparation:
  1. Rinse a chilled glass with a small amount of absinthe or Herbsaint, discarding any excess.
  2. Muddle the sugar cube with bitters and a splash of water in another glass.
  3. Add rye whiskey and ice to the muddled mixture and stir.
  4. Strain the mixture into the rinsed glass.
  5. Garnish with a lemon peel.

Whiskey Sour

• Ingredients:
  • 2 oz Rye Whiskey
  • 3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 1/2 oz Simple Syrup
  • Lemon Wheel or Maraschino Cherry (for garnish)
• Preparation:
  1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
  2. Add rye whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup.
  3. Shake vigorously until well chilled, about 15 seconds.
  4. Strain the mixture into an old-fashioned glass filled with ice.
  5. Garnish with a lemon wheel or maraschino cherry.

Food Pairings

Here are five food pairings that would complement the Rittenhouse Rye profile:

Steak and Grilled Meats

A bold rye whiskey’s spicy and rich notes complement the savory flavors of a perfectly cooked steak or grilled meats. The whiskey’s complexity can enhance the overall dining experience.

Aged Cheddar or Blue Cheese

The sharpness and complexity of aged cheddar or the pungent creaminess of blue cheese create a delightful contrast with the strong flavors of rye whiskey. These cheeses can also help mellow the whiskey’s intensity.

Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate’s bitterness and depth pair harmoniously with the sweet and spicy notes of rye whiskey. It can be a luxurious and indulgent combination for dessert.

Spicy Barbecue

The smoky and spicy characteristics of barbecue dishes, such as pulled pork or spicy ribs, can harmonize with the boldness of rye whiskey. The whiskey’s heat can complement the barbecue’s spiciness.

Smoked Salmon or Sushi

Rye whiskey’s smoky and complex flavors can complement the richness of smoked salmon or the delicate flavors of sushi. It’s a unique pairing that offers a balance of flavors.

Remember that personal preferences play a significant role in food and whiskey pairings, so feel free to experiment with different combinations to discover your favorite match.

Preserving your Bottle

• Store it in a cool, low-light environment.
• Ensure the bottle is sealed tightly to prevent oxidation.
• If the liquid level falls below 25%, it’s advisable to consume it promptly to preserve flavor consistency.

About Rittenhouse Rye

• Bottled at 100 proof with 50% ABV.
• Aged for four years in charred oak barrels.
• Recipient of the “North American Whiskey of the Year” title at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
• Received a remarkable score of 94 points from Wine Enthusiast.
• Named “Best North American Whisky” by Whisky Magazine.
• Acknowledged as the “Best Buy Whisky of the Year” by Whisky Advocate.
• Produced at the Heaven Hill Distillery alongside Evan Williams and Elijah Craig.