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Rye Whiskey

Rye Whiskey Delivery or Pickup

The Instacart guide to rye whiskey

Ready for a new toasty evening drink to pair with dinner or dessert? Instacart delivers a variety of beverages, including all types of rye whiskey, in stores near you!

About rye whiskey

Rye whiskey is a special type of whiskey that is extracted from at least 51% rye. Rye is a member of the wheat family that is usually grown as a grain or forage crop. Rye whiskey was popular in the states of America and Canada in the 18th and 19th centuries. It has continued to grow in popularity ever since then.

In Canada, the use of the name “rye whiskey” usually has nothing to do with its content. As such, rye whiskey in Canada may not contain rye at all in the first place. The title “rye whiskey” is a legal name used in place of Canadian whiskey or Canadian rye whiskey. Historically, Canadian whiskey contained rye as its major ingredient, and that explains the prolonged use of the term.

Types of rye whiskey

Rye whiskey is most popular in the cities of America and Canada. People refer to it as:
  • American rye whiskey 
  • Canadian rye whiskey
The regulations in the fermentation and production processes differ according to the country. In America, rye whiskey must be put in the barrels at no more than 125 proof (62.5% ABV) as stipulated by the government.

In Canada, rye whisky must be aged in wooden barrels that are no larger than 700 liters (154 imp gal; 185 US gal) for a minimum of three years, and the barrels do not have to be new oak. Rye whiskey that is not blended with any other spirit and has been aged for up to two years is called straight rye whiskey. This is most common in America, where their rye whiskey necessarily contains rye.

Thee differentiation is made based on content:
  • Straight rye whiskey: a pure brand that has not been mixed with other spirits.
  • Blended rye whiskey: a mixture of two or more spirits to make up the final product.

How to pick the best rye whiskey

Some consumers have always preferred to take rye whiskey as a mixture in a cocktail. Others prefer more sweetened brands to spicy ones. There is also the question of coarseness. Some prefer rye whiskey that is easy to gulp down and has no effect on the palate, while others prefer something a bit intense.

People can prefer straight rye whiskey, single barrel, or barrel proof rye whiskey based on the variations. Straight rye whiskey is not blended or colored. Single barrel rye whiskey is bottled from the same barrel and maintains the characteristics of that barrel. Barrel-proof rye whiskey is not watered down to about 40% ABV.

Below are some popular rye whiskey brands to choose from:
  • Old Overholt Straight Rye Whiskey: This remains one of the oldest whiskey labels in the industry. It is named after Abraham Overholt and was first produced in 1810. It has remained relevant ever since. With its special spice and taste, you have no other option than to go for more.
  • Bulleit “95” Rye Small Batch Frontier Whiskey: This brand is popular and unique for the high level of rye mash it contains, which is usually 95% as indicated with the tag “95” on its label. It is best for people who are looking to get a good hit of the rye feeling through a higher percentage of rye mash.
  • WhistlePig Rye Whiskey: This brand is known for the long duration it is kept in the barrel, usually 10 years. It contains about 51% rye, making it one of the most sought rye whiskeys alongside its special flavor.
  • Angel's Envy Rye Whiskey: This is a rare brand that is opened only on special occasions. There are limited bottles available, which is responsible for the special status it has acquired over the years.

Rye Whiskey Near Me

Buy your favorite Rye Whiskey online with Instacart. Order Rye Whiskey from local and national retailers near you and enjoy on-demand, contactless delivery or pickup within 2 hours.

FAQs about rye whiskey

Yes, there is a notable difference between rye and bourbon whiskey. The rye mash used in rye whiskey has a spicy note that is usually described as dry, while the corn mash used in bourbon is usually sweet and flavored. 

Yes, the transition from rye whiskey to bourbon is usually smooth. Most consumers find out that it is the missing line in their alcohol consumption. It is best to first begin with mild rye whiskey brands before going for other brands.

There is no special method of storing rye whiskey. It already comes in a portable bottle that preserves it properly. All that is required from consumers is to cover the bottle cap properly after use.