Elijah Craig Straight Rye Whiskey offers a polished Kentucky-style rye with just enough spice to assert itself, but balanced by sweet corn and neutral oak. With its inviting aromatics, clean palate, and broad availability, it serves as an excellent entry point into rye whiskeyreliable, well-crafted, and ideal for sipping or mixing.

Origins & Production

• Launched in January 2020, this expression marks Elijah Craigs first straight rye whiskey under its iconic brand. Distilled and matured in Kentucky by Heaven Hill, it adheres to U.S. standards for straight rye (aged at least two years in new charred oak).

• Crafted using a traditional mash bill of 51% rye, 35% corn, and 14% malted barley, positioning it in the Kentucky-style “barely-legal” rye traditionspiced but balanced toward corn sweetness .

• Bottled at 94 proof (47% ABV), its priced modestlytypically around $30$35making it accessible and suitable for both home bar and mixing.

Aroma

The aroma is inviting and lightfeaturing caramel, vanilla, gentle citrus peel, and floral rye spice. Subtle notes of lemongrass or dill add intrigue reminiscent of old-school rye traditions .

Flavor & Texture

• On the palate, it opens with lemon zest and cardamom, bringing vibrancy. It transitions into caramel and butterscotch, with hints of banana bread and chocolate briochesweet but not overly rich.

• The texture is medium-bodied, slightly oily, and smoothshowing buttery bakery-like notes without heaviness.

Finish

The finish is medium-length, clean, and dry. Rye spice subtly emerges in the back end, alongside mild oak tannins, tobacco or leaf notes, and a gentle pepper warmth. While not overly powerful, the ryes character shines through gently.

Style & Reception

• Positioned as an extra-aged straight rye, its omission of an age statement suggests it meets or exceeds the four-year threshold for consistent quality, but does not highlight specific vintage sourcing .

• Awarded Platinum Best in Class (SIP Awards 2020) and Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, it has also earned 92 points at TAG Global Spirits Awards 2024 and was named to Whisky Advocates Top 10 of 2020

Best Use & Pairings

• A versatile mixer: shines in cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Boulevardier, where its rye spice harmonizes with bitters and sweet notes

• Also approachable neat or with a single ice cubesmooth enough for casual sipping, but with enough depth to satisfy more serious enthusiasts.

“Invigorating brown spice and citrus notes give way to buttered pecan, cedar smoke, and graphite on the nose. Effortlessly smooth on the palate with warm, peppery tones and brown sugar that coats the mouth before finishing soft and fruity with a touch of clove.” 92 Points 2023 Ultimate Spirits Challenge

“The first extra-aged Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey to join Elijah Craigs award-winning family of Bourbons. A unique combination of spicy rye grains and sweet corn, coupled with a steadfast attention to detail, give Elijah Craig Straight Rye the perfect balance of flavor and smoothness.“