When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more
While bourbon is the darling of American whiskey, many whiskey lovers are turning to rye thanks to the spicy liquor's ability to boost any cocktail. Fred Minnick, the author of "Bourbon Curious" and judge at several whiskey competitions, including the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, calls rye the best whiskey for cocktails. "I love a rye Manhattan," Minnick said. "Bartenders are basically the reason why we see it coming back."
To find the best rye whiskeys, I tried more than 75 ryes, talked to countless experts, and toured several distilleries. While our picks are based on expert recommendations and several blind tastings, keep in mind that preferences are personal and subjective. We curated our list based on rye whiskeys that will appeal to most drinkers.
Advertisement
Here are the best rye whiskeys in 2023:
Best overall: 291 Colorado Whiskey Small Batch Rye Whiskey - See at Drizly
With its delicious, complex flavors, the 291 Colorado Whiskey Small Batch Rye Whiskey was the best in our tests. Its smooth, bold taste and higher proof make it excellent on its own or in cocktails.
Best under $30: Wild Turkey 101 Rye Whiskey - See at Total Wine
With its complex array of flavor notes from fruit and honey to leather and spice, Wild Turkey 101 Rye Whiskey is an excellent sipper and mixer for its price.
Best under $50: High West Double Rye Whiskey - See at Total Wine
If you're looking for a smooth drink with a little more depth of flavor than the "cheap stuff," High West Double Rye Whiskey delivers without breaking the bank.
Best top shelf: WhistlePig 12 Year Old World Rye Whiskey - See at Total Wine
If money is no object, the WhistlePig 12 Year Old World Rye Whiskey is great for drinking neat with its ensemble of balanced flavors thanks to its unique wine cask finishing.
Best for cocktails: Rittenhouse Rye Whiskey - See at Drizly
Rittenhouse Rye Whiskey is a basic, affordable rye with a nice spice level that works well in Old Fashioneds, Manhattans, Sazeracs, and other cocktails.
Best Canadian: Lot 40 Canadian Rye Whisky - See at Total Wine
Made with rye and no other grains, Lot 40 Canadian Rye Whisky offers spicy, sweet flavoring and a long, tasty finish, making it ideal for drinking on its own.
Best Kentucky: Sazerac Rye Whiskey - See at Drizly
Distilled by Kentucky's legendary Buffalo Trace Distillery, Sazerac Rye Whiskey has an ensemble of delicious flavors and a long finish that punches well above its $30 price.
Best high-proof: Traverse City Whiskey Co. Barrel Proof Straight Rye Whiskey - See at Total Wine
At nearly 120 proof, the Traverse City Whiskey Co. Barrel Proof Straight Rye Whiskey is a stiff sipper, yet the sweetness provides a suitable counter to the high alcohol content.
Best for drinking neat: Hotel Tango Straight Rye Whiskey - See at Hotel Tango
If you are looking for a flavorful rye that you can drink without adding ice, water, or mixers, check out the smooth, sweet-tasting Hotel Tango Straight Rye Whiskey.
Best for beginners: Elijah Craig Rye Whiskey - See at Drizly
With its lower proof, mellow flavor, and bourbon-like mash bill, Elijah Craig Rye Whiskey is the perfect rye for beginners.
Best bottled-in-bond: FEW Bottled in Bond Straight Rye Whiskey - See at Mission Liquor
FEW Bottled in Bond Straight Rye Whiskey is made according to the strictest federal specifications for whiskey and has a complex ensemble of flavor notes that is sure to please rye lovers.
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7o8HSoqWeq6Oeu7S1w56pZ5ufonyowcidnKxnm57BpLTEp2abnaOperPFxGauoaGjoLK6